Coffin dumped at councillor’s office

A PORT Elizabeth ward councillor was given a clear sign that a member of his community was deadly serious about wanting action on illegal dumping when a white coffin was delivered to his doorstep yesterday.

The coffin was dropped off by six men allegedly hired by a businessman who had mobilised residents to toyi-toyi at the offices of councillor Bongo Nombiwa in Kwazakhele.

Businessman Lulama Khabane was apparently upset over illegal dumping next to his business premises.

Nombiwa, of Ward 20, said he was shocked by the bizarre move. A group of 60 people, including schoolchildren, arrived at the councillor’s Hoho Street office only to be told he was not present. The group insisted he be called.

Later, six men carrying the coffin informed Nombiwa’s staff they had a “present” for their boss, which allegedly came from Khabane.

“I was shocked when I got there. In my culture a coffin symbolises bad luck,” Nombiwa said. “I know this man very well and have a long history with him. I am shocked that he can mobilise people and deliver a coffin to me.”

The police were also called to the councillor’s office.

Khabane could not be reached for comment last night. It appears the protesters informed Nombiwa that Khabane, who arrived later, was simply trying to send a message with regard to illegal dumping next to his establishment.

Nombiwa said he had tried to address the problem and had reported it to the municipality for action.

“We even went as far as cleaning up this particular place on Nelson Mandela Day. We have organised several community meetings on the issue but he [Khabane] never bothered to attend any of them.”

He said Khabane later apologised for his conduct.

Nombiwa said he had subsequently decided to give Khabane a second chance by simply warning him.

Police spokesman Warrant Officer Thembi Gwe confirmed the incident.

He said Khabane did not deny the incident and said he had simply wanted to send a message to the councillor.

Gwe said Nombiwa had declined to lodge a complaint.

I was shocked when I got there. In my culture a coffin symbolises bad luck