Councillor probed on a charge of intimidation

EASTERN Cape police are investigating a case of intimidation and pointing of a firearm laid against an ANC councillor in the Buffalo City Metro.

The incident allegedly took place last month. Ward 12 councillor Gwebile Gosani is accused of threatening to kill a resident Dudu Qwayisa on March 18, two days after the two argued at an ANC meeting.

As a result of the alleged incident, Gosani was arrested the following day and spent the night in jail before he was released on warning.

Gosani’s arrest was confirmed yesterday by police spokesman Captain Nkosikho Mzuku who said a case of intimidation and pointing a firearm was being investigated.

Speaking to the Daily Dispatch yesterday, Qwayisa said he had called for Gosani’s removal after the councillor allegedly voted with the opposition when the council was appointing an acting city manager.

The ANC had told its councillors to vote for Ncumisa Sidukwana, instead 21 ANC councillors voted with the opposition and selected Nonceba Mbali-Majeng.

Qwayisa, who yesterday, described the incident as “traumatising”, said he feared for his life when Gosani allegedly pointed a firearm to his head.

“I was walking alone in NU1 that evening when the councillor approached me from behind.

“Because we had an argument a few days prior in a meeting where I was amongst those who called for his removal, he stopped me and said I was making his life a living hell in his own ward.

“He threatened to kill me and when I laughed off such threats, he then pulled out a silver gun and pointed it at my head,” recalled Qwayisa.

He said he was saved from the situation when a car approached with its headlamps on.

Gosani yesterday confirmed a case has been opened against him, but denied pointing a firearm at Qwayisa.

“These are just pure politics. He is just being used by people who want me removed, people which I will not name at this moment. We are aware who his handlers are, and I know they are out to dent my image,” he said.

Gosani will appear at the Mdantsane Magistrate’s Court on April 26. —