IFP concerned about political killings plaguing the district

THE IFP in King Cetshwayo District condemns any form of violence or threats against councillors.

The party has urged law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate all assassination attempts and politically influenced killings.

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IFP District Secretary, Tobias Gumede said they are very concerned over the recent wave of killings and assassination attempts directed at councillors, including the killing of ACDP PR Cllr John Fana Myaka.

“Myaka was a PR councillor in the City of uMhlathuze and was working in the coalition with the IFP. A few days after his tragic death, we mourned the loss of Cllr Killer Mkhwanazi in uMkhanyakude District. These incidents are alarming and must be strongly condemned,” said Gumede.

“It is surprising to hear the ANC claiming it is on the verge of taking control of uMfolozi and uMhlathuze municipalities, both of which are led by the IFP.

“In uMfolozi, the IFP is a majority party and does not require a coalition partner to govern. Also, the ANC made repeated attempts to lure Cllr Myaka. They even offered him a mayoral position, which he declined. Myaka remained loyal to the IFP until his untimely death.

“The IFP continues to work harmoniously with our coalition partners in uMhlathuze, and the residents are satisfied with the efficient service delivery under our leadership.
“It is evident that the ANC will stop at nothing to seize control of municipalities like uMfolozi and uMhlathuze,” said Gumede.

He said the IFP calls on the ANC to engage in fair and democratic processes, and to stop resorting to desperate measures to undermine the will of the people.

“We remain committed to the principles of democracy, good governance and serving the best interests of our communities. We call on all political parties to engage in constructive and peaceful competition, focusing on the needs of the people rather than engaging in divisive tactics,” he said.

ANC Musa Dladla Regional Secretary Nathi Xulu refuted the claims that they tried to lure Cllr Myaka and offered him a mayoral position.

“We do not know anything about those attempts. If there were such negotiations, they may have been conducted by our province or national office, but as a region, we do not know what the IFP is talking about,” said Xulu.

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