It is of particular concern that these killings are occurring with regularity and that there have been few arrests and convictions of those responsible.
 
Over the past five years there have been about 50 politically related killings, occurring predominantly in KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga.
 
The recent killing of Michael Phelembe, an ANC leader in Mpumalanga, who was allegedly gunned outside his house in Pienaar. In February two people were killed - also in Pienaar - during protests allegedly by dissatisfied ANC members over nomination process of candidates for local elections. These murders bring to ten the number of political activists killed in Mpumalanga in recent months.

Other incidents have been reported in other provinces, and Kwa-Zulu Natal in particular, where several political activists were killed in Glebelands Hostel, Kwa-Mashu and Estcourt areas. The SAHRC is involved in the processes to find solutions to the issues in Glebelands Hostel. This past weekend three members of the ANC were reported to have been killed.
 
It is of grave concern to the SAHRC that 22 years into democracy, political killings – brutal reminders of our tumultuous past – are still happening.  Political turmoil and killings affect and violate, not only the victims’ right to life, but also the capacity of the State to deliver services.
 
The right to life should be sacrosanct in our society and particularly when it relates to fundamental freedoms of political activity, the right to vote, freedom of expression and beliefs. No one has the right to take a life, for any reason, least of all for political gain.

We appreciate the efforts of the Independent Electoral Commission to manage some of the hotspots, but call upon the political parties and others to exercise restraint and ensure tolerance within their ranks and towards political opponents.

The Commission also welcomes the recent appointment by Police Minister Nathi Nhleko, of a task team to investigate politically motivated killings, made up of members of the Hawks, forensic units and the South African Police Service.

We call upon the criminal justice system to ensure they effectively respond to the killings, regardless of party political affiliation. And that they ensure that perpetrators are brought to book, that the victims are cared for, and that our democracy is upheld.

ENDS

Issued by the SA Human Rights Commission

For queries contact Isaac Mangena on 084 926 4269 or SAHRC Spokesperson Gail Smith on 060 988 3792