In the wake of the shocking assassination of Mr. Nhlalayenza Ndlovu, the Chief Whip of the DA in the uMngeni Local Municipality, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), serving as the Official Opposition in the KZN Legislature, has strongly denounced the escalating political violence in the province.
Mr. Ndlovu was fatally shot in Mpophomeni on Tuesday night, prompting the IFP to express its outrage over what it deems an unconscionable act. The IFP vehemently condemns the increasing violence targeting leaders and ordinary citizens, emphasizing the urgent need to halt these senseless killings.
The IFP points to the apparent failure of the Moerane Commission on political killings in KZN, labeling it a futile exercise. In response, the party is demanding the re-establishment of specialized units focused on murder, robbery, and firearms. The IFP believes that revitalizing these units is crucial to combating the high number of killings in the province.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the Crime Intelligence Unit’s performance, the IFP accuses it of incompetence and calls for improved on-the-ground intelligence gathering. The party stresses that the Unit’s responsibility extends beyond reactive measures, emphasizing the need for proactive efforts to prevent atrocities and apprehend those planning criminal activities.
The IFP unequivocally denounces political killings, emphasizing that there is no justification for the murder of anyone, particularly community leaders. Such acts not only result in loss of life but also sow seeds of tension and hatred in the nation. The party highlights the profound impact on communities when a leader is murdered, calling for strong condemnation of attacks on community leaders.
Calling on the police to conduct a detailed investigation into Mr. Ndlovu’s killing, the IFP urges swift action to identify both the mastermind behind the plot and the criminals who executed it. The party emphasizes the constitutional mandate for the police to protect lives, detect and prevent crime, and insists on severe punishment for all perpetrators.
In extending condolences to the Ndlovu family, friends, DA, uMngeni Municipal leadership, Councillors, community, and SALGA under the leadership of Cllr Thami Ntuli, the IFP urges the public to assist the police with any information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible for the assassination.
Lastly, the IFP reiterates its call for the KZN Police to intensify efforts in eradicating illegal firearms, frequently employed by criminals. The party emphasizes that it is the collective responsibility of all South Africans to join the fight against crime by reporting individuals, including family members and friends, engaged in criminal activities.