DURBAN - THE ANC KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Working Committee (PWC) is expected to decide on Monday on the future of two mayors who are facing criminal charges, including politically-related killings.
The Alfred Duma Municipality Mayor in Ladysmith, Vincent Madlala, was arrested on Friday together with his three sons for their alleged involvement in politically-related killings.
Madlala and his sons are expected to appear at Ezakheni Magistrate’s Court on Monday. It is still unclear what charges he will face.
Police were not able to confirm since the SAPS political task team unit reported directly to Police Minister Bheki Cele. He has not released a statement yet.
ANC provincial spokesperson Nhlakanipho Ntombela said the ANC was aware of the mayor’s arrest and was awaiting a report from the police before commenting.
A source in Ezakheni township where Madlala lives said he was suspected to be behind the killing of a South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldier who was shot and killed in Ezakheni last year. The source, who did not want to be named, alleged that the soldier was used by Madlala as a hit man before joining the army.
In 2019, Madlala’s son Sibusiso was shot and killed. Last year, his three sons survived a shooting that left three of their friends dead.
“Let’s wait for full charges but I can tell you the mayor and his sons would be linked to many politically related murders here in Ladysmith and in the province. We know he had been using his sons as hitmen,” said the source.
Since 2018, KZN has witnessed a spate of political killings.
Meanwhile, Newcastle mayor Ntuthuko Mahlaba appeared in the Newcastle Magistrate’s Court last week facing theft, assault and malicious damage to property charges. The matter was postponed to August 26 for further investigation.
In terms of the ANC’s step-aside rule both Madlala and Mahlaba would be expected to voluntarily vacate their positions until their cases are finalised or be suspended by the party. Mahlaba is also expected to step aside from his position as the ANC’s regional chairperson.
Daily News