Violence, intimidation allegations in Somkhele
The Dubelenkunzi community in Somkhele recently elected an anti-mining committee to voice the concerns of those affected by mining
ALLEGATIONS of violence and intimidation by so called ‘corrupt’ traditional leaders against members of a Somkhele community have surfaced following the community’s attempts to elect an anti-mining committee.
When Gednezar Dladla, a respected member of the Dubelenkunzi community and campaigner against the environmental and social effects of mining, passed away in November, his widow and family pledged to continue his work.
Dladla worked with communities surrounding Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP) affected by the effects of the existing Somkhele mine and those communities which would potentially suffer the effects of the proposed Fuleni mine.
According to associates, Dladla frequently challenged Somkhele management and traditional leaders who benefited personally from the mine.
When the Dubelenkunzi community met in early December to elect a committee, it was reportedly ‘hijacked’ by a local induna who prohibited the election of a committee, saying Dladla had ‘disrespected’ him.
The induna did, however, later elect a general committee that would focus on community development.
Through this committee, however, the Dubelenkunzi community feared their mining concerns would not be heard and continued with the election of their own committee.
Complaints
Earlier this month, the Mpukunyoni Community Property Association (MCPA) met to discuss widespread complaints in Somkhele involving traditional leaders and individuals allegedly benefiting from compensation intended for all Somkhele residents.
Although police protection was sought, none materialised and the induna and his associates arrived, reportedly armed with sticks, and assaulted the gathered residents.
Many were taken to the clinic for their injuries and one woman was hospitalised.
Despite this, the residents elected an anti-mining committee a week later, to continue Dladla’s work.
The induna could not be reached for comment and questions were sent to Somkhele mine’s public relations officer who did not respond.
Meanwhile, a violence monitor is awaiting police feedback concerning the lack of protection and alleged unwillingness of police officers to open cases against the intimidators.
