Social media outpouring over Molosi’s death

The death of Knysna Ward 8 councillor Victor Molosi on Monday night 23 July has sent shock waves throughout the Greater Knysna community, and social media has been abuzz with condolences to the Molosi family and calls to bring Molosi’s murderer, or murderers, to justice.

One of the most vocal of Molosi’s opposing councillors, Peter Myers of the Democratic Alliance, was quick to post his sentiments on Facebook on the evening Molosi was shot three times near his home in Concordia.

“It is with deep sadness and shock that I have learned of the death of Victor Molosi. Although Victor was a political opponent, I nevertheless counted him as a good friend and colleague, who always worked tirelessly for his community and his town. He was an exceptionally good man, and this terrible deed will have a devastating impact on all of us. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, colleagues and community. May he rest in peace,” said Myers.

‘Respected and loved by all’

The resounding sentiment in the hundreds of comments was that Molosi was respected and loved. The hard work he did in the community was emphasised in the way people spoke of him, with some referring to him as the Madiba of Knysna.

Disbelief that something so horrendous could happen to such a good man dominated comments. “This is completely unbelievable,” said more than one person. “How could something like this happen in a town like Knysna?” others asked.

Outcries and promises that the killer or killers of Molosi (residents and those who knew Molosi seemed to be divided on this point) should be found, also peppered comment sections. Most voices agreed that this was an assassination - some more accusatory than others.

“We will never rest until his killers are found,” said some, while Dorothy Draghoender said: “Joh, what’s going on, are these ANC people killing each other for position because I sure as hell don’t believe the DA is capable of doing such a terrible thing to gain power.”

One sentiment was abundantly clear in all comments - Victor Molosi aka Freeze will be missed.