LIMPOPO – The situation in Muswodi remains tense after security guards reportedly opened fire on ANC members during a Ward 11 branch general meeting, using rubber bullets and live ammunition. Five people were hospitalised and nine others injured.

The meeting was held at Musunda Primary School on February 7, in an area known for prior violent incidents. The chaos reportedly erupted when members clashed over preferred candidates for the ANC’s provincial conference in Polokwane next month.

Factional infighting is believed to be at the centre of the conflict.

The opposing groups are said to back Musina Mayor Godfrey Mawela and ward 11 councillor Fhedzisani Nemukomambe, who have publicly pledged support for different candidates. As the elective conference approaches, ANC leaders in Vhembe have urged members to remain calm amid increasing reports of internal violence across the country.

It is alleged that those injured are supporters of Mawela. One of the injured, Thembuluwo Tshikosi, said security officers had a list of members allowed to attend and were calling out names at the gate.

Members who were locked out questioned why security, rather than the branch secretary, was controlling access. He said members asked that two representatives, accompanied by security, be allowed inside to see what was happening. He alleged the officers began manhandling them, prompting some members to throw stones.

The guards allegedly then opened fire.

Tshikosi was shot and taken to Tshilamba Clinic before being transferred to Musina and later Polokwane hospitals. On Tuesday, he and three others remained hospitalised. He dismissed rumours that the shots were fired by unknown gunmen.

ANC regional secretary Matodzi Ralushai condemned the incident and said a full report would be submitted.

Vhembe police spokesperson Capt Vuledzani Dathi confirmed attempted murder cases have been opened. No arrests have been made.