By Sonica Naudé-Steyn
In a letter addressed to SAPS KZN Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi, a prominent member of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, Sibonelo Nomvalo, has urged the deployment of the Political Killings Task Team to Umzimkhulu.
Nonvalo stated that Umzimkhulu has for a long time been plagued by politically motivated killings, violence and assassinations and that of an appropriate specialised investigative unit is needed.
“The area has repeatedly experienced incidents of political intimidation, conflict and killings that have undermined democratic participation and created fear amongst political activists and ordinary community members alike. As the country approaches the forthcoming local government elections, tensions within the area appear to be escalating,” wrote Nomvalo.
He noted that there have already been reports of threats against members of the MK party operating in Umzimkhulu.
“These developments have raised serious concerns regarding the safety and security of our members and supporters. While we remain committed to peaceful political engagement and the rule of law, we believe it would be irresponsible to wait until lives are lost before preventative measures are taken. Our request is therefore not in response to a political killing that has already occurred, but rather a plea for proactive intervention aimed at preventing violence, protecting lives, and preserving the integrity of the democratic process,” continued Nomvalo.
He believes the presence of an investigative unit would not only assist in assessing the credibility of reported threats but would also serve as a deterrent for future possible threats.
The MK Party also hosted a service delivery and anti-corruption march in Umzimkhulu last week, where they claimed that they have proof of alleged ghost employees and payment of work not yet completed for the municipality.
- The MK Party during a service delivery and anti-corruption march in Umzimkhulu last week. Photo: MK Facebook.
