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KwaZulu-Natal’s politically motivated violence is gaining momentum and requires drastic intervention from Government. According to a source, politicians who fight corruption and injustice are the targets of these disgraceful attacks.
The matter has reached the level where the Democratic Alliance’s Imran Keeka explains that KZN is becoming a killing field of politicians. This follows yet another attack. However, this time a DA Councillor from the eMadlangeni (Utrecht) Municipality.
Similar to other incidences, Keeka explains that the attack occurred outside the Councillor’s home a week ago. “The men threatened the Councillor with guns and shot at his house.”
Fortunately, the Councillor was not injured, and the attackers dispersed when the man’s wife called the local neighbourhood watch for assistance.
Keeka says he will be meeting with the eMadlangeni Municipality’s leadership to address the matter and look for solutions to protect Councillors in the area. Allegedly, the attack followed queries into specific municipal contracts.
Moreover, Keeka notes that two local DA Councillors have also received threats on their lives. The first Councillor is in the Amajuba District Municipality, and the other is a Newcastle Councillor.
“Fortunately, the one matter has been resolved by the SAPS. However, the District Councillor has been warned that they have been deemed as enemy number one.”
Keeka further stated that he has spoken to the DA’s provincial chair, as they do fear for the Councillor’s life.
With three DA Councillors receiving threats on their lives and various attacks across the political landscape, the harsh reality of political violence showcases the dangers local Councillors face.
Looking back, On 28 January 2022, the Amajuba District Speaker, Cllr Reginald Ndima, was shot outside his Ncandu Park home, succumbing to his wounds later that night.
Just days before Cllr Ndima’s tragic passing, eThekwini ward 103 councillor Minenhle Mkhize was gunned down outside his home in Cliffdale.
Then, of course, there was the assassination attempt on Newcastle’s Deputy Mayor, Cllr Musa Thwala, on 14 March 2022. A tragic incident that saw one of his bodyguards shot and killed outside his home.
Following this, Inkosi Maxwell Mandlakayise Nxumalo of Ladysmith was assassinated outside his home on 22 March 2022.
But what are the possible causes or reasons for these attacks?
Keeka stated that multiple possible reasons exist. However, he stressed that there is one reason that stands out. “Those working to unearth corruption have big targets on their backs.”
What are your thoughts on the matter? Share your views in the comment section below.
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