Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) ward councillor Nthabiseng Tshivhenga was shot and killed at her home in Extention 4, Tembisa, on the evening of October 10, 2024. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched an investigation into the murder, which occurred as the victim was arriving at her residence. No suspects have been arrested, and the motive for the targeted attack remains under investigation.
What happened during the attack?
According to SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, Tshivhenga was intercepted by unknown gunmen as she pulled into her driveway. The assailants fired multiple shots, fatally wounding her before fleeing the scene in a vehicle. Emergency services arrived shortly after the shooting but declared the councillor dead at the scene. Police have since opened a case of murder and are pursuing leads to identify the perpetrators.
Who was Nthabiseng Tshivhenga?
Nthabiseng Tshivhenga served as an Economic Freedom Fighters councillor in the City of Ekurhuleni. As a public official, she represented the party in local government, focusing on service delivery and community advocacy within the Tembisa area. Her death has prompted calls from political leadership for law enforcement to prioritize the investigation and ensure those responsible are held accountable for what the party has characterized as a political assassination.
Why is this incident significant?
The killing of Tshivhenga highlights a broader trend of violence against local government officials in South Africa. The South African government and various political organizations have expressed concern over the rising frequency of attacks on municipal representatives. Historically, such violence is often linked to internal party disputes, competition for resources, or retaliation for anti-corruption efforts within municipal structures. This incident follows a series of similar attacks on councillors across the Gauteng province over the past two years, raising questions about the security measures afforded to local representatives.
Key Details of the Investigation
- Location: Extension 4, Tembisa, Ekurhuleni.
- Date of Incident: October 10, 2024.
- Status: SAPS investigation ongoing; no arrests reported as of October 11, 2024.
- Agency: Gauteng Provincial Police are leading the search for the suspects.
What happens next in the investigation?
Police investigators are currently analyzing forensic evidence gathered from the crime scene and reviewing potential CCTV footage from the surrounding neighborhood. The SAPS has appealed to members of the public who may have witnessed the shooting or have information regarding the suspects to contact the Crime Stop hotline. The City of Ekurhuleni council is expected to release a formal statement regarding the impact of this vacancy on ward operations, while the EFF leadership continues to demand swift justice for their fallen member.