There is growing worry and bewilderment in the MK Party after two of its members were shot dead within a space of 24 hours.
Two MK Party Members Shot Dead Within 24 Hours
uMkhonto weSizwe elections manager in Cator Manor outside Durban, Mxolisi Zungu, was shot and killed yesterday in the presence of his wife just after they had dropped off their child at nursery.
Colonel Robert Netshiunda, spokesperson for KZN SAPS, confirmed the tragedy. He explained that the victim was walking with his wife after dropping their child off at a nearby crèche when a suspect, who was on foot, shot him from behind. The suspect then took the victim’s firearm and fled the scene.
The motive for the killing remains unclear.
An MK Party insider told Zimoja that Zungu knew some people were after him following the party’s success:
“For some time now, people from that party never liked the idea of us jumping ship and joining MK Party. We were the foot soldiers, and we made history by winning all the wards under Cator Manor. Recruiting many people to vote for the MK Party created many enemies for us.”
Later into the night yesterday, another MK party member was killed by gunfire.
Party official Baas Kruger announced:
“Sad to announce Cde Gatsheni, the MK Student Movement Gauteng Provincial Spokesperson, was shot and killed last night in Ekurhuleni. Hamba Kahle Mkhonto.”
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Spats Of Violence Against uMkhonto weSizwe Officials
The party has lost about five members since the conclusion of the 2024 elections. Two other victims were from Katlehong, east of Johannesburg, while three were murdered in Umlazi.
MK spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndlela expressed pain over the killings:
“Despite the interventions made by the police to apprehend those responsible, we find it deeply troubling that police and soldiers are being deployed to suppress violence from MK Party members potentially. This stance is profoundly misplaced and unjust, as it is clear that our members are victims and not the perpetrators of these violent acts.
“We reiterate our continuous call to all MK Party members and supporters to remain calm and patient despite all provocation. Our commitment to peace and democratic principles remains steadfast, and we urge our community and South Africans to stand united and refrain from retaliatory actions.”