By Levy Masiteng
The Portfolio Committee on Community Safety in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, chaired by Dr. Bandile Masuku, has condemned the killing of ANC councillor, Thabang Masemola.
Masemola, 36, who was a ward 10 councillor in Mamelodi, was fatally shot in a suspected drive-by shooting in Mamelodi East on Tuesday afternoon.
The motive behind the attack remains unknown, and Gauteng police have launched an investigation into the incident.
“We are deeply outraged by the continued targeting and assassination of public representatives, particularly ward councillors,” said Masuku.
“This senseless killing is yet another tragic incident in a disturbing trend of political violence in Gauteng.”
The Gauteng Provincial Legislature has also announced the cancellation of a commemorative event scheduled for Thursday to honour struggle icon Solomon Mahlangu, in light of the tragic murder of Councillor Thabang Masemola.
The legislature said the decision was taken as a mark of respect and mourning following Masemola’s killing
“The safety of ward councillors and the broader implications for democratic governance and service delivery are of grave concern,” Masuku added.
“We call on the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Gauteng to prioritise investigations into these politically motivated killings.”
The committee has requested a comprehensive report from Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni on the progress of investigations into all councillor killings in the province during the 2024/25 period.
Masuku added that the committee further called on law enforcement agencies to work with all stakeholders to strengthen community safety and ensure that public representatives can carry out their duties in a secure environment.
The legislature extended its deepest condolences to Masemola’s family, the ANC Greater Tshwane Region, and the community of Ward 10.
“His untimely death is a profound loss to his loved ones and to the democratic processes he served with dedication,” Masuku said.
He emphasised the need to ensure that public representatives can serve without fear or intimidation.
“The culture of impunity surrounding these crimes must end,” Masuku said.
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