IFP Councillor Mbuso Mthimkhulu Shot Dead During Community Meeting In Rand West

The Inkatha Freedom Party has condemned the killing of councillor Mbuso Mthimkhulu, who was shot dead during a community meeting in Rand West Municipality on Thursday evening.

The party described the attack as a disturbing act of violence against a public representative. Police are now searching for the gunmen responsible for the fatal shooting.

According to the IFP, details surrounding the incident remain unclear as investigations continue.

IFP Councillor Killed During Rand West Community Meeting

IFP spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa said reports indicate that an unidentified suspect opened fire on Mthimkhulu before fleeing the scene.

“Reports, whilst still sketchy at this stage, indicate that an unknown assailant opened fire on Mthimkhulu, fatally wounding him before fleeing the scene.”

Hlengwa said the party strongly condemns the murder and warned about the impact such incidents could have on democracy, especially ahead of local government elections.

“The IFP unequivocally condemns this senseless act of violence. The killing of a public representative, particularly on the eve of the upcoming local government elections, is both tragic and deeply concerning for our democracy,” said Hlengwa.

“No citizen, community leader, activist or public servant should ever lose their life in the course of serving the people.”

IFP Calls On SAPS To Prioritise Mbuso Mthimkhulu Murder Investigation

The IFP has urged the South African Police Service to move swiftly in tracking down those behind the killing.

“We call on the South African Police Service (Saps) to act with urgency and decisiveness in bringing the perpetrators to book.”

Hlengwa also called for the immediate implementation of the SAPS 72-hour investigation protocol.

“Given the nature of this crime, we further call for the immediate activation of the Saps 72-hour investigation protocol to ensure that all necessary resources are mobilised and deployed to apprehend those responsible,” he said.

The party appealed for calm within the community following the shooting.

Mbuso Mthimkhulu Remembered For Service In Bekkersdal

According to the IFP, Mthimkhulu was elected as a councillor in 2021 and served the Bekkersdal community with dedication and humility.

The party said he played an active role as a member of the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC), where he focused on accountability and ethical governance.

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“As a member of the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC), he remained steadfast in advancing good governance, accountability and ethical financial management within the municipality.”

The IFP also extended condolences to Mthimkhulu’s loved ones and colleagues.

“We mourn the loss of a committed servant of the people whose life was cut short in such a cruel and violent manner. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” said Hlengwa.

Mthimkhulu’s killing comes as Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi recently backed the creation of a Political Killings Task Team aimed at tackling politically motivated murders, taxi violence and cartel-linked crimes in the province.