The murder of DA councillor in Stellenbosch, Xolile Kalipa, has others living in fear they could be next in the small town.
Kalipa, a PR councillor and mayco member for Community Services in Stellenbosch, was brutally gunned down on Sunday in Kayamandi.
Police spokesperson, Wesley Twigg, said detectives are investigating the murder.
“The circumstances surrounding a shooting incident on Sunday, 4 May, at about 9:26pm in Kayamandi, Swart Street, where a 54-year-old male was shot and fatally wounded, are under investigation.
"Stellenbosch police responded to a complaint of a shooting and upon arrival on the scene they found the victim with gunshot wounds to his chest.
"The victim was declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel.
"The motive for the attack forms part of the police investigation. The suspect/s fled the scene and are yet to be arrested," said Twigg.
The DA in the Western Cape released a statement condemning the murder and urged police to act swiftly to arrest the suspects.
“Xolile was known as a gentle, true servant of the people, who worked tirelessly to uphold the DA’s values and championed the residents he served.
"He served as Cape Winelands district councillor over two periods before his election in Stellenbosch Municipality as a PR councillor in 2021.
"The former Stellenbosch mayor saw his potential and appointed him to serve as mayco member for Community Services.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to Xolile’s family, friends, community and colleagues. The DA will monitor the matter closely and we hope the perpetrators will face the full might of the law.”
The Stellenbosch Municipality also took to their social media to extend their condolences to Kalipa's family.
“Councillor Kalipa was a much-loved and deeply respected community leader. He served as a Proportional Representation councillor for the Democratic Alliance and was an active member of the mayoral committee, where he held the position of portfolio chairperson for Community Services.
"His contributions to the work of Council and his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of residents will be remembered by all who had the privilege to work alongside him."
Mayor, Jeremy Fasser, expressed his shock and sorrow at the news, saying: “I am devastated by the loss of Councillor Kalipa. He was a dedicated public servant, a voice for the voiceless and a pillar of strength in his community. His passion for uplifting our people – especially the youth and women as part of his Community Services portfolio – was evident in everything he did. We have not only lost a colleague, but a friend and a true champion for social development.”
ANC PR councillor in Stellenbosch, Monwabisi Rataza, said Kalipa was the second politically affiliated person murdered in Kayamandi less than a month - with former ANC councillor Lindikhaya Maqeba murdered in April.
Rataza said councillors in the area were living on edge, with fears their lives could also be in danger.
"As the ANC we are very shocked by this tragedy.
"I am asking myself what are the issues around this that have resulted in murder. Kayamandi is a small area, there has been two deaths in less than a month.
"We are fearing for our own lives.
"I am sure the police will work to apprehend the suspects in no time, to bring justice to Maqeba and Kalipa," said Rataza.
GOOD Party councillor in Stellenbosch, Marius van Stade, said the party is shocked and saddened by Kalipa's death.
"It is imperative that justice is served, and those responsible are held accountable without delay.
"Councillor Kalipa was known as a soft-spoken, humble, and dedicated public servant. He will be remembered as a passionate individual who always had an open ear for the concerns of his community and worked tirelessly to assist those in need.
"Our hearts go out to the Kalipa family, his friends, colleagues, and the broader Stellenbosch community during this time of immense grief. We mourn alongside you and stand united in the call for peace, justice, and the protection of those who serve our communities."
Anyone with information regarding the incidents can anonymously contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile app.
Cape Argus