Nomvula Mokonyane, ANC first deputy secretary-general, has condemned the assassination of Sibusiso ‘Khekhe’ Khwela, an ANC councillor for Ward 17 in eThekwini, who was shot dead in his office last week. The Political Killings Task Team is investigating the murder, but at this stage, no arrests have been made and the motive has not been established, according to the SAPS.

Official ANC Response And Community Tributes

Speaking at Khwela’s funeral in Klaarwater, Durban, on 15 August, Mokonyane denounced the killing and underlined the party’s stance against political violence. She highlighted Khwela’s contributions as a community worker and his role in local government.

“He was a community worker; various sectors that are represented here paid tribute to someone that they believe they still needed him. Only through us having credible councillors reclaiming eThekwini we can have characters like comrade Khekhe multiplying,” Mokonyane said at the service.

Ongoing Investigations And Broader Context

The Political Killings Task Team has taken charge of the case as part of broader efforts to address targeted attacks on public officials in KwaZulu-Natal. The murder of Khwela is the latest in a series of political assassinations in South Africa, including the killing of ANC MP Sibusiso Radebe in 2018 and Mbombela councillor Jimmy Mohlala in 2009, both of which sparked national concern over officials’ safety.

Persistent attacks on politicians, especially in KZN, have raised fears about the stability and security of those serving in government roles. The ANC and allied organisations have reiterated calls for greater protection of councillors and a coordinated response to political violence. The investigation into Khwela’s assassination remains ongoing, with the PKTT urging anyone with information to come forward.

The SAPS said updates on investigations would be provided as new information emerges.