A Democratic Alliance (DA) councillor is facing criminal charges for allegedly assaulting a member of the public in an incident that began at a local pub and continued at a hospital, bringing calls for party disciplinary action.

Police spokesperson Christopher Spies confirmed that Uniondale police are investigating a case of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm following the November 9 incident, which led to the arrest of a 39-year-old suspect.

Councillor Justin Fry appeared at the George Magistrate’s Court, where proceedings were postponed until December pending medical records. The court revealed Fry has filed counter-charges against the alleged victim.

GOOD Party representative Rosa Louw said the complainant reported that a verbal argument with Fry at a pub escalated into physical violence. “The victim further alleges that Fry followed him to the hospital and continued the assault, resulting in a nurse calling the police,” Louw said.

DA East Region chairperson Venolea Fortuin responded that the party “believes in law and order” and will abide by due process, but stopped short of confirming whether internal disciplinary action would be taken.

George Municipality speaker Sean Snyman expressed concern that his office learned of the incident through media reports rather than official channels. “As this case is before the courts, the judicial process must run its course, and the Council cannot act until the facts are determined,” he said.

Fry himself offered limited comment, stating: “As a member of the DA, I respect the rule of law and welcome any process which emanates from it.”