KZN Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi has called for a police investigation after the bodyguards of Newcastle mayor Xolani Dube allegedly opened fire on protesting residents on Wednesday.

According to witnesses, protesting residents from an informal settlement in Newcastle’s Charlestown area were involved in a confrontation with Dube and a delegation from the municipality.

Two of the demonstrators, who were protesting against water supply issues, were taken to hospital after sustaining gunshot wounds during the confrontation with the bodyguards of Dube.

Sithole-Moloi says a police investigation is necessary to establish what transpired during the protest.

“In light of this regrettable incident, we’re calling upon the South African Police Services to conduct a thorough investigation into the events surrounding the altercations and the discharge of firearms.

“It’s crucial to determine the circumstances under which the shots were fired and establish accountability for those responsible.”

While the public has a right to demonstrate, Sithole-Moloi says, it was important to ensure that protests were peaceful.

“It’s truly disheartening to see such incidents unfold within our communities. While it is vital for the public to voice their concerns and demand accountability from their elected officials, resorting to violence undermines the very essence of peaceful protest,” she says.

The MEC urged the Newcastle Municipality to attend to the water issues being raised by the Charlestown residents.

“We acknowledge the urgency of the situation and understand the frustrations of the community of Charlestown.

“The issue of water scarcity is a matter that should be addressed promptly and efficiently by the Newcastle Municipality. We, therefore, urge the Newcastle Municipality to expedite the provision of water services to prevent further incidents where communities feel compelled to take matters into their own hands,” she says.

Municipality responds

Newcastle Advertiser reports the municipality issued a statement following the altercation.

“The municipality would like to place on record that it is aware of an altercation that transpired during the protest action, during which several persons, including the mayor, sustained multiple injuries.

“As a law-abiding citizen and leader of the community who cares about the safety of the people of Newcastle Mayor Xolani Dube has instructed his protection team to participate with law enforcement authorities to fast-track their investigation and to establish what transpired during this altercation.

“Mayor Dube is determined to find those responsible for the incident and will ensure that they face the full might of the law. Mayor Dube has expressed his disappointment towards those individuals who seek to destabilize the daily functions of our communities to further their political agenda,” the statement reads.