Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) president Velenkosini Hlabisa has condemned the recent attack on three party members in Ward 34 in KwaNyuswa in Izingolweni.

It is believed that Mfundo Mzelemu, Mzwandile Mzelemu and Thembelani Nzama were putting up campaign posters in the area when an unknown group of men attacked them.

Hlabisa added that attempts to stop free campaigning were unacceptable.

“We call on all political parties, political activists and communities to exercise restraint, tolerance and respect. Elections must be a contest of ideas, policies and leadership, not a contest of intimidation and violence.”

IFP chairperson in the Ugu District, Sfundo Ngwane, said the members were told that the IFP cannot campaign in the area.

“They tried to run, but because they were on foot, they caught them and assaulted them. Fortunately, when the incident happened, the ward candidate was not present; otherwise, she would also have been injured.”

Ngwane said a case was opened with the police.

According to Saps Ugu District Communications, a case of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm was opened at Ezinqoleni Saps after three men were assaulted while erecting election posters on August 23.

No arrests have been made as yet.

This incident has raised concerns regarding safety in the lead-up to the Local Government Elections on November 4.

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