Congress of South Africa Trade Unions in the Eastern is shocked and appalled by the horrific and barbaric killing of Comrade Thembekile Somngwangwa who was one of the nominees for the ANC Ward Candidate position at Ward 30 Ingquza Hill Sub-region in OR Tambo Region, Eastern Cape.
He was stabbed to death after the community meeting was postponed on 27 June 2021. COSATU condemns this gruesome killing by mobsters outside the Community Hall in the strongest terms.
The brutal murder of Comrade Thembekile Somngwangwa has turned the spotlight on the lack of tolerance during the ANC internal democratic process of Local Government Candidate Selection. This is against the ANC culture of political persuasion and tolerance when people exercise their democratic right of nominating candidates of their choice. This senseless killing reflects the high levels of desperation from some who want to see their choice of candidate emerging at all costs.
This emerging culture of violence in ANC meetings is a deep cause for concern as it indicates a moral decay on the part of its membership and support base. ANC as a leader of the society must always transmit the values it espouses. Absence of tolerance and peace somewhere is a threat to tolerance and peace elsewhere. Criminals must not find refuge in the organisations of the people as the dilute the revolutionary image of these organisations. ANC must ensure that the perpetrators face internal disciplinary procedures and the full might of the law. This would require assistance and cooperation on the part of those who witnessed the attack.
COSATU in the Eastern Cape expresses sincere deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences the family of Comrade Thembekile Somnwangwa, his relatives, comrades and friends.
May his dear soul rest in eternal peace.
Issued by COSATU Eastern Cape
Contact:
Mkhawuleli Maleki
COSATU Provincial Secretary
Mobile: 082 339 5482
Email: mkhawuleli@cosatu.org.za