ANC Calls for Security Review After Ward Councillor Shot Dead at Sizakala Centre
- Ward councillor Sibusiso Khwela was shot and killed at a Sizakala centre in Klaarwater, west of Durban
- The gunman entered the facility posing as a resident seeking assistance before opening fire on Khwela
- ANC regional task team coordinator Sabelo is now pushing eThekwini municipality to strengthen security at all municipal sites
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Source: Getty Images
KwaZulu-Natal — The ANC has called on eThekwini municipality to conduct an immediate security review at all municipal facilities after ward councillor Sibusiso Khwela was shot dead inside a Sizakala community services centre in Klaarwater, west of Durban.
According to SABC News, the ANC regional task team coordinator, identified as Sabelo, said the attack exposed serious gaps in security at local government buildings where members of the public have unrestricted access. Sabelo said the incident had created concern about the safety of other ward councillors operating across the municipality.
How the attack unfolded
According to Sabelo, the assailant entered the Sizakala centre presenting himself as a resident in need of assistance from the ward councillor. He sat through the consultation before drawing a firearm and shooting Khwela dead. Khwela had completed two terms as a councillor and was not expected to contest the next election.
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ANC urges eThekwini to act
Sabelo said the ANC regional task team had formally requested eThekwini municipality to review security arrangements around both councillors and the facilities in which they operate. He argued that public servants who engage directly with residents during routine duties are left particularly vulnerable by the current security setup at municipal sites.
The ANC's call centres on upgrading access controls and protective measures at Sizakala centres and similar facilities where councillors regularly hold community interactions. No arrests have been confirmed in connection with Khwela's killing at the time of publication.
Source: Briefly News
