By Doreen Mokgolo
Members of the EFF went head-to-head with the ANC during a door-to-door campaign in Juju Valley, Seshego on Sunday, demanding that they vacate the area.
The area is named after the EFF leader, Julius Malema, who is also called Juju in political circles.
ANC volunteers who were conducting a door-to-door campaign led by regional chairperson Makoro Mpe were met by a group of EFF members demanding that they leave.
In a video that has since gone viral on social media, members of the ANC can be seen throwing stones at EFF members who were also charging back – and soon a gun went off, injuring a nine-year-old girl who was a bystander and a 25-year-old man.
Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said they are investigating cases of attempted murder. No one has been arrested.
“Several other people sustained injuries after the members hit each other with stones and several gunshots were fired.
“There is a possibility of more cases being reported as the investigation unfolds,” he said.
Mashaba said the police deplore the senseless act of violence that has resulted in injuries of innocent individuals and a child.
“The safety and security of our communities especially during the election period is of utmost importance,” he said.
Tinny Morema, an ANC member who was injured during the scuffle, said she was hit by a stone while trying to run to safety.
“The members of the EFF were angry and wanted to show us that they owned the area, so we had no choice but to fight back.
“No area in the country belongs to any political party. Residents can’t be held at ransom by individuals affiliated to some political parties.
“We will canvas wherever we want when we want to without fear of any political party,” she said.
In a statement released by the ANC, Mpe said during the campaign EFF supporters claimed the area as a no-go area for any political party.
However, “the residents in their majority welcomed the ANC and pleaded with the government to accelerate basic services.
“We condemn in strongest terms political intolerance,” he said.
Picture above: ANC regional chairperson Makoro Mpe.
Image source: Supplied
