Amajuba District Municipality Speaker, Councillor Reginald Bhekumndeni Ndima, was shot dead outside his Newcastle home in the early hours of Saturday, 29 January. According to sources, the 58-year-old sadly succumbed to his injuries upon arrival at the hospital.
The news of the IFP councillor’s death has sent shockwaves through the province as many are calling it a political killing. Cllr Ndima, who was recently elected as Speaker of the Council in the Inaugural Council meeting held on 30 November 2021, was one of the longest serving councillors of the Amajuba District.
According to police spokesperson, Brigadier Jay Naicker, a family member saw an unknown vehicle fleeing the scene just after 1am, following the shooting. However, the details surrounding his death remain sketchy.
Mayor of the District, Councillor Vuselwa Bam, has expressed her shock at the tragic and untimely passing of Cllr Ndima.
“My deepest sympathies go out to the family of the deceased, people of the Amajuba District, the Amajuba District Municipality and all those who were close to Cllr Ndima. May God give you the comfort and peace that you seek and may the soul of your loved one rest in peace.”
She then called on law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators to book.
DA KZN Leader, Francois Rogers, has also condemned the killing. In a statement released, Rogers called on the provincial leadership to prioritise the recommendations of the Moerane Commission to prevent further bloodshed.
“The DA in KZN is saddened to learn of yet another political killing in just over a week. We would like to send our heartfelt condolences to his family and colleagues. The job of councillors is to serve our communities, it is now up to the Premier, Sihle Zikalala, and CoGTA MEC, Sipho Hlomuka, to ensure that they are able to do their duty without being in constant fear,” said Rogers.
IFP National Spokesperson, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, said that they expect law enforcement agencies to investigate the murder with urgency. He also said that the IFP is worried about the continued killing of public representatives, especially councillors, without any justice being served.
“The absence of successful investigations and prosecutions in the spate of killings of councillors in KwaZulu-Natal emboldens the criminal syndicates to continue on their killing spree with impunity,” said Hlengwa.
Cllr Ndima’s death comes one week after eThekwini ANC Ward Councillor, Minenhle Mkhize, was shot dead as he arrived at his at his Cliffdale home in Durban. At time of going to press, no arrests have been made. SAPS urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stop on 08600-10111.
