With just a week to go before the Local Government Elections on November 4, an Eastern Cape councillor was fatally shot at his home in Dutywa on Friday (October 23) at about 19:30. 

Ernest Fiphaza (63) was a councillor for the South African Communist Party (SACP) in Ward 10 in the Mbhashe Local Municipality. 
 
According to Eastern Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, Fiphaza was involved in an argument with two unknown men. 

“The argument escalated into a physical altercation and it is alleged that one of the suspects drew a firearm and fatally shot the victim,” said Gantana. 

Task team deployed to track suspects 

She added that the suspects allegedly pointed firearms at Fiphaza’s son and demanded his father’s firearm. 

“They were shown a safe, which they broke open, but did not find any firearm before fleeing the scene.” 

Gantana said the suspects are still at large. 

“Police have opened a case of murder with an additional charge of house robbery. A task team from the Provincial Serious and Violent Crime Investigation Unit has been assigned to investigate the case.” 

SACP condemns murder 

In a statement, the SACP in the Eastern Cape described the killing as ‘brutal’ and ‘senseless’. 

The party said Fiphaza was an active member of its movement and a candidate for the councillor position in Ward 10. 

“The killing of a political activist in the sanctuary of his own home raises grave concerns about the safety of political activists and the ability of our people to participate freely in democratic processes without fear, intimidation or violence. 

“No individual should lose their life for serving their community, participating in political activities or exercising their democratic rights. Political violence has no place in our constitutional democracy and those responsible for this killing must be identified and brought to justice through a thorough and impartial investigation.” 

Urgent need to safeguard activists 

The party added that with elections approaching, the incident underscored the urgent need to safeguard political activists and ensure that all political formations can participate in electoral processes without fear of violence or intimidation.  

“We call on all political parties, community structures and law enforcement agencies to work towards an environment of peace, tolerance and respect for democratic rights,” said the party.  

Anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects is urged to contact 071 475 2292. Information can also be shared anonymously via Crime Stop on 08600 10111. 

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