Killings mount as ANC candidates nominated

The notorious Glebelands Hostel in uMlazi.

The notorious Glebelands Hostel in uMlazi.

Published May 1, 2016

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Two ANC members, one of whom was a proportional representation councillor were killed in the space of one week.

While the situation remains tense, political analysts have predicted more violence leading up to the local government election on August 3.

Zodwa Sibiya, ANC PR councillor in eThekwini was shot and killed at Glebelands Hostel. Six days later, Themba Tobo another ANC member was shot dead at his house in Richards Bay.

Reacting to Sibiya’s death, provincial ANC secretary, Super Zuma, hinted that the killing was politically motivated: “We are worried about what seems to be a developing trend within the eThekwini region, where leadership is seen as an easy target for assassination,” he said.

The trigger for the killings is believed to be the nomination of candidates for the elections.

Political analyst, Dr Bheki Mngomezulu of Mzala Nxumalo Centre for the Study of South African Society, said mending the fragmented ANC would be a litmus test for the party leaders.

“People felt entitled to positions that’s why they resort to killing each other. It’s not about serving the people it’s about positions. They see positions as professions. Solving this will require a lot of sacrifices from party leaders,” he said.

For the setbacks that plagued the ANC, particularly in KZN, to be remedied, Mngomezulu suggested the party deal head on with factions that crippled the party.

Alternatively, Mngomezulu said the police must intervene in cases in which people were killed for political reasons. “Maybe this can somehow help curb this growing trend of people being killed for political reasons,” he said.

Tensions started simmering in the build-up to the contentious eThekwini region nominations.

The region, the ANC’s biggest, boasting 103 branches, was split between councillor Zandile Gumede and mayor James Nxumalo. Gumede won, ultimately becoming chairman.

Disunity was also evident when former secretary Sihle Zikalala won the provincial conference, unseating Premier Senzo Mchunu as chairman. Mchunu remained premier.

In 2011 ANC eThekwini regional secretary Sbu Sibiya was shot dead at his home in Inanda.

His death followed that of ANC official, councillor Wiseman Mshibe, who was also shot dead.

Analysts anticipate further conflict.

Sunday Tribune

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