The African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal has condemned the continued killing of political activists and public representatives in the province, warning that political violence poses a serious threat to South Africa’s constitutional democracy ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections.
The ANC expressed concern following the fatal shooting of Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) Ward 17 councillor candidate Khethelo Mduli, who was shot at his home in the presence of his children and later died from his injuries.
The party conveyed its condolences to Mduli’s family, colleagues, friends and the uMlalazi community.
The ANC also welcomed the life sentences handed to Khayelihle Shabalala and Thabo Mathonsi by the Pietermaritzburg Regional Court for the murder of uMngeni Local Municipality Democratic Alliance (DA) Chief Whip Nhlayenza Ndlovu.
The party said the sentences demonstrated that those who use violence to silence political opponents must face the full force of the law.
It has called on investigators to pursue every possible lead in Mduli’s killing, including whether the murder was politically motivated.
“The ANC calls on law-enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned,” the party said, adding that anyone who commissioned, financed or facilitated the killing must be identified, arrested and prosecuted.
With KwaZulu-Natal entering a critical electoral period, the ANC said political competition must be based on ideas, policies and programmes rather than intimidation and violence.
It also urged political parties, activists and communities to promote political tolerance and respect democratic processes.
The party warned that there must be “no safe haven for political assassins” and no impunity for those who commission political killings.
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