Gauteng ANC demands breakthrough in political and government official killings

The ANC in Gauteng has issued a strong call for urgent transparency and breakthroughs in the disturbing spate of killings targeting councillors and government officials across the province.

Speaking on behalf of the Provincial Task Team (PTT) on Wednesday in Johannesburg, ANC coordinator Hope Papo, voiced deep concern over the growing number of unsolved murders involving public representatives in Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, and the West Rand.

Papo stressed that these killings appear systematic and are taking place without clear investigative progress or accountability.

"We are demanding a consolidated report on these killings. Who has been killed, were cases reported, were investigations launched, and — most importantly — why have there been no breakthroughs?" asked Papo.

“This cannot continue without answers.”

According to the ANC, these incidents are not isolated but form a troubling pattern, often emerging during heightened political periods such as the run-up to elections.

The most recent example cited was the murder of a Mamelodi councillor, gunned down just a day after the ANC raised safety concerns at a party meeting.

A senior forensic officer, Mpho Mafole, in Ekurhuleni has also been among those killed.

Papo emphasised the separation between party and state, stating that while the ANC cannot summon law enforcement bodies directly, it is the Premier of Gauteng who must now step in and account to the public.

“The Premier must engage law enforcement and provide answers to the people of Gauteng. It’s not just an ANC issue—this is about public trust, safety, and democracy,” he said.

The ANC also called on municipalities to proactively safeguard councillors and public officials, who remain legitimate representatives of their communities until election day.

Papo condemned the harassment of councillors, particularly women, noting the recent incidents where mobs have marched to their homes over grievances unrelated to their roles—often linked to immigration matters.

“When a councillor’s home becomes a protest site over immigration, we must say clearly—that is wrong. Public representatives deserve protection and dignity,” Papo added.

The ANC urged swift action, transparency, and justice, warning that political killings must not become a new normal in South African democracy.

kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za

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