Ex-apartheid cop convicted of murder now running for mayor in Nelson Mandela Bay

Bill Harington, a former apartheid-era police officer and mayoral candidate for the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, is accused of murdering ANC activist Mbongeni Jama in 1991. Harington, then 21, was convicted of the crime for his role as section head of a unit of young Inkatha special constables, though he did not pull the trigger.

He served 13 years and 10 months in prison for the 1991 murder, and was initially sentenced to eight years, which was later increased to 18 years on appeal. Harington has apologised to Jama's family and demonstrated remorse. The Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus) party, which nominated Harington as its candidate, maintains that he should not be punished for the rest of his life over the conviction.

The party argues that he has learned from his past and is dedicated to community upliftment. However, some political analysts argue that Harington's candidacy could draw attention to gaps in South Africa's electoral legislation, as it permits individuals with criminal records to stand for office. Critics question whether Harington has been fully rehabilitated and are concerned that voters are primarily focused on issues such as jobs, safety, and basic service delivery, rather than his past.