Councillors targeted in rising political killings before November elections

Political killings of councillors are on the rise ahead of the November 4 Local Government Elections, raising fears of targeted attacks driven by competition for municipal resources, tenders, and public jobs. Three ANC-linked figures were killed within 24 hours in Knysna, reigniting concerns over political violence and power struggles at the municipal level.

Other political parties have also seen their representatives targeted, including DA councillor Sinovuyo Dyokwe and ANC councillor Sibusiso Khwela. Police have apprehended suspects in the murders of Tshwane ANC councillor Thabang Masemola and EFF member Aaron Makola. A former Knysna mayor and ANC councillor, Aubrey Tsengwa, was shot dead on Wednesday night, followed by the killing of two ANC members in Knysna on Thursday, just 24 hours apart.

Police have not yet established a motive for the shootings. The Knysna Municipality has deployed additional law enforcement and placed some councillors in safe houses. Acting Municipal Manager Boy Ngubo stated that the municipality is working with provincial authorities to assess security risks. Executive Mayor Councillor Thando Matika condemned the violence, emphasizing that killing a public representative is an attack on democratic local government.

Western Cape Police Oversight and Community Safety MEC Anroux Marais urged vigilance against political violence as the elections approach. Political assassinations have historically increased during local election years due to competition for positions and access to municipal finances, according to Corruption Watch. Research indicates that political violence could intensify as parties vie for positions in the upcoming elections, with previous years recording sharp increases in political assassinations.

Analyst Sandile Swana warns that the 2026 Local Government Elections could be the deadliest in South African history, noting the violence is increasingly crossing party lines.