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The African National Congress in KwaZulu-Natal has been contacted by communities across all political affiliations fearing for their lives in Hlobane Township. 

This follows the murder and attack of community members shortly after the Mayor of the IFP controlled Abaqulusi Local Municipality, Cllr Khehla Mkhwanazi had allegedly vowed to hunt them down. 

He apparently singled out four community members for punishment. 

He accused them for being involved in protests against the municipality’s random disconnection of electricity and complete removal of electricity meter boxes.

We are aware that many poor communities have been targeted by Cllr Khehla Mkhwanazi and his henchmen who are masquerading as municipal workers.

Communities have complained that he has turned the local municipality into some small homeland where intimidation and killings is becoming the order of the day.

We recall that under Inkatha controlled KwaZulu homeland, community protests were banned and those who challenged Bantustan authorities were eliminated.

Speaking at the funeral of one of the Mayor’s victim Khetha Mazibuko - in a widely shared video, a female community member makes serious allegations against the IFP Mayor. In the video, she alleges that she is also being targeted and was dismissed from the municipality on the instruction of Cllr Khehla Mkhwanazi.

Suprisingly, some IFP councillors have contacted the ANC and pleaded with the party to act in the interest of  the community of Hlobane Township.

As the ANC we do not only offer to be on the side of the community of Hlobane Township in times of need but we will ensure that the Cllr Khehla Mkhwanazi is removed and sent to prison where he belongs.

Months ago, the ANC championed the removal of former Mayor Cllr Mncedisi Maphisa.

After a series of  investigations, he was found guilty of  contravening the councillors' code of conduct.

He was dismissed for interference with recruitment and tender procurement processes.

He was also found guilty of sexually abusing a married female municipal worker. He called himself the only bull in the kraal with authority to sleep with all female employees.

Following the latest incident that involves the current Mayor, we send our deepest condolences to the bereaved families.

Working with the ANC leadership in Mzala Nxumalo Region, we will ensure that no stone is left unturned.

This province has not place for Chief Warmongers who are styling themselves as leaders.

Issued by the African National Congress in KwaZulu-Natal