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ActionSA strongly and unequivocally condemns the death threats made against our Member of the Provincial Legislature in Mpumalanga, Thoko Mashiane.

These threats follow Mashiane’s decision to formally engage the Madlanga Commission regarding the decade long matter of the mining tragedy at Lily Mine in Mpumalanga that claimed the lives of three miners, Yvonne Mnisi, Pretty Nkambule and Solomon Nyirenda. ActionSA has consistently pursued the fact that this tragedy and the status of the resultant business rescue process have not been properly dealt with since the fateful day on 5 February 2016 to date in the interests of justice for the affected families. 

Reports and submissions linked to the matter have raised serious concerns regarding alleged infiltration within the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, as well as alleged connections between criminal syndicates involved in illegal mining and elements operating within law enforcement structures. These remain allegations that must be properly investigated through lawful and independent processes.

It is deeply concerning that a public representative seeking accountability and truth in a matter of such national importance is now subjected to intimidation. This conduct represents a direct attack on constitutional democracy and on the right of elected representatives to perform their oversight responsibilities without fear or favour. MPL Mashiane will be informing the Mpumalanga Legislature of these threats so that they can conduct a security risk assessment after this threat. 

ActionSA remains steadfast in its commitment to pursuing accountability, exposing wrongdoing where it exists, and ensuring that no amount of intimidation will deter efforts to uncover the truth.

Issued by ActionSA Parliamentary leader Athol Trollip