Political killings ‘will scare off new potential leaders’

THE widespread killings of political leaders in KwaZuluNatal would scare people away from politics, the provincial deputy secretary of the ANC, Mluleki Ndobe, said yesterday following the death of yet another political leader in the province.

The victim, Khayelihle Mgcwaba, 42, a former councillor and political activist, was shot dead at his home in Machunwini area, Umzimkhulu.

His wife and two men were arrested earlier this week in connection with the murder. They appeared in the Umzimkhulu Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday and were remanded until May 23.

Ndobe did not want to speculate on the motive of the murder, but said the killing of political leaders, whether politically motivated or not, was of grave concern to the party.

“Politics is increasingly becoming dangerous, people will not want to be associated with political leadership, especially local government.

“Our fear is that these killings will scare off skilled, dedicated and passionate leaders to the detriment of the community,” he said.

This was partly why the ANC leadership had called for a commission of inquiry into political killings in the province.

Ndobe added that Mgcwaba’s death was a major blow to the Harry Gwala region. He described him as a humble and committed cadre, a foot soldier who actively mobilised for the ANC at his branch.

Mgcwaba served as a PR councillor for two terms and was a member of the executive branch committee.

He said Mgcwaba, who was disabled, had also been instrumental in championing the rights of the physically challenged.

“He promoted the inclusion of our differences. He served the interests of the disabled and his death will impact on that sector,” Ndobe said.

Risk

Mgcwaba’s death has brought to 36 the number of killings since the run-up to last year’s municipal elections. The majority of those killed were members and leaders of the ANC in the province.

Political analyst Imraan Buccus said although it was clear it was a difficult time to be in politics, people were prepared to take risk.

“People are no doubt prepared to kill and this may deter people from entering local politics, but, on the other hand, the patronage dynamics are overwhelming, too,” he said.

He said there would always be people willing to enter local politics, some with an unwavering commitment to local government and others looking to enter the world of patronage and reward.

The acting provincial commissioner of the SAPS, Major-General Bheki Langa, said the police were concerned about the killings.

“We will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that those involved are prosecuted for their crime,” he said.