Political killings raise alarm ahead of elections
The shocking murder of Knysna councillor Aubrey Tsengwa raises alarms about political violence as South Africa approaches local government elections.
Former Knysna mayor and ANC ward councillor Aubrey Tsengwa was shot dead in Knysna, joining a concerning list of political figures killed nationwide as South Africa prepares for local government elections. Tsengwa, 48, represented Ward 8 and previously served as Knysna’s executive mayor. Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg stated that detectives from the Provincial Serious and Violent Crime Unit are investigating the case of murder and three counts of attempted murder.
Tsengwa was found with multiple gunshot wounds to his head and upper body after being shot in Ngxalo Street at around 9:20 pm. Police responded to the scene and identified one of the passengers as having been shot in the arm. The motive remains unclear, and no arrests have been made. Western Cape Police Oversight and Community Safety MEC Anroux Marais condemned the killing, noting its timing during an important political period.
She urged vigilance against political violence as the local elections approach. The ANC and the GOOD Party both expressed shock, anger, and sadness over Tsengwa's death, emphasizing the loss to the ANC, the Knysna Municipality, Ward 8, and the broader community. They called for a thorough investigation and vowed to hold the perpetrators accountable.
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