City and EFF mourns the death of fighter Moshe Mphahlele

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Gauteng mourns what it described as the ‘reckless and irresponsible act’ on the death of fighter Moshe Mphahlele during a community protest in Marlboro on August 4.

According to EFF Gauteng communications officer Dumisani Baleni, Mphahlele, a deputy regional secretary of the EFF Johannesburg Region and a Public Representative (PR) Councillor of the City of Johannesburg, was in the mix of protestors outside a block of container flats in Marlboro when he was fatally shot.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed they were investigating a case of murder concerning Mphahlele’s death and that no arrests have been made so far.

Baleni said several community members were also wounded during the shooting incident, among them a teenager who is currently in critical condition in hospital. “Mphahlele was engaged in a peaceful service delivery programme, advocating for social housing for the people in need,” Baleni said.

The EFF in Gauteng is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Regional Deputy Secretary of the EFF Johannesburg Region, Fighter Moshe Mphahlele. pic.twitter.com/tKo3fnJbip

— EFF Gauteng (@EFFGautengProv) August 5, 2024

“Mphahlele was a revolutionary ground force of the EFF and a dedicated community activist who committed his life to improving the living conditions of the people of Johannesburg and Alexandra,” Baleni said.
He urged the police to speed up their investigation and make sure those responsible for Mphahlele’s death were apprehended and brought to book to answer for their deeds.

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“We call for calm and discipline among our members and the public as we seek justice. The EFF extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of fighter Mphahlele and wish a speedy recovery to all those injured in the protest action,” Baleni added.

Meanwhile, the City of Johannesburg Speaker of Council, Cllr. Margaret Arnolds said it was with a heavy heart that she learnt of the passing of Mphahlele. “Cllr Mphahlele was a dedicated public servant whose life was tragically cut short in an incident that has left us all shocked and deeply saddened,” Arnolds said in a statement.

She said the circumstances surrounding Mphahlele’s untimely death were currently the subject of police investigation. “A thorough and transparent investigation must be conducted to ensure justice is served and the truth is brought to light.”
The speaker, together with the entire Council, extends sincere condolences to Mphahlele’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. “Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they navigate this profound loss,” Arnolds said.

She also extended sympathies and support to the EFF Caucus in the City of Johannesburg, saying losing a colleague and a friend in such a manner is undoubtedly a profound and challenging experience.
“In these moments of grief, all members of the Council and the broader community must come together, uphold the values of justice, and work towards a peaceful and respectful resolution,” Arnolds added.

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