By Bhekizenzo Zonele
The killing of Democratic Alliance (DA) ward councillor candidate Thulani Mbana in the Free State has heightened concerns about political violence ahead of South Africa’s local government elections on 4 November.
Mbana, the DA’s Ward 14 candidate in Metsimaholo Local Municipality, was shot dead outside his home in Taylor Park, Zamdela, on Monday evening.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) said the incident occurred at about 9.40pm when two unidentified men arrived at Mbana’s home and called him outside.
As he approached the suspects, one allegedly shot him several times at close range before both men fled on foot.
Mbana died at the scene.
Free State police commissioner Lieutenant-General Thabang Lesia has activated the Zamdela Trio Task Team and the Serious Organised Crime Unit to investigate the killing and track down the perpetrators.
Police have cautioned against linking the murder to political violence before investigations are completed.
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