KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Mr Willies Mchunu, has expressed shock at the killing of a serving councillor in Mahlabathini, northern KwaZulu-Natal.
It is alleged that on Monday, 4 November 2013 the body of Ms Phumelele Doris Buthelezi (36) was found with a gunshot wound on a gravel road at Stetema Reserve. Ms Buthelezi was an NFP ward councillor in Ulundi. The motive for the killing is not known and no arrest has yet been made. Police have opened a murder docket.
MEC Mchunu, who has recently noted the decline in political tensions in the Zululand District, today expressed shock and disgust at the killing of Ms Buthelezi. He noted that this killing came just weeks after the province has held peaceful by-elections at the nearby KwaNongoma.
"This is disturbing news. Councillors are public representatives chosen democratically to serve communities. It is therefore disturbing and regrettable that they are now targets of criminals."
"This killing, coming just months ahead of the 2014 provincial and national elections, has the potential to undermine gains made in bringing about political stability and tolerance in the Zululand District," said MEC Mchunu.
MEC Mchunu urged the locals to remain calm and observe restraint while police are working around the clock to arrest those responsible for this killing.
"We urge members of the public who may have information about this killing to contact the police. The on-going killings in this province are a serious concern to Government and the people of this province," said MEC Mchunu.
MEC Mchunu also extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of Ms Buthelezi, his political colleagues and friends.
Media contact:
Kwanele Ncalane
Cell: 072 803 1462 or 079 6995755
E-mail: Kwanele.ncalane@kzntransport.gov.za
Sipho Khumalo
Cell: 082 682 6437
E-mail: Sipho.khumalo@comsafety.gov.za
