IFP want answers after deputy chief whip’s ‘assassination’

The IFP have called on police to leave no stone unturned in their search for the killers of its Deputy Chief Whip Khethamabala Sithole.

Sithole was killed by unknown assailants on Saturday evening in Katlehong, Gauteng. Provincial Secretary Alco Ngobese was also injured in the shooting and is currently receiving treatment.

IFP national spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa said details around Sithole’s death “are still sketchy at the moment”, but the party urged police to find those responsible for the murder.

“It is the IFP’s expectation that the law enforcement agencies will spare no effort to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice.”

He described the IFP’s National Council member as “a hard-working servant leader of the people and our country.”

“We have lost a trusted patriot and a diligent leader of the IFP.

“The IFP is poorer today with his passing, and South Africa has lost a good man who served his country par excellence.”

The EFF in Gauteng said the death may have been politically motivated and slammed political intolerance.

“Political killings are unacceptable and undermine our democracy. We therefore condemn all acts of political violence and urge all parties to show maximum tolerance and respect for opposing views. Democracy must be built on peace, not violence.”

The GOOD Party also shared their condolences.

“Violence has no place in our democracy. May his soul rest in peace,” it added.

Sithole gave his life to service

Sithole joined the IFP in his youth and served in various party structures, including as IFP Gauteng Provincial Chairperson.

He served as a Councillor in Ekurhuleni and then briefly served in the Gauteng Legislature from 2009 to 2010. He was redeployed to the National Assembly in 2010, where he served until his death.

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