By Everson Luhanga
Councillor Moshe Mphahlele was shot and killed on Sunday night while helping residents in Johannesburg’s Region E.
Mphahlele, 39, was responding to a call from Alexandra residents who said they were under attack by private security and Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) officials for living in containers he helped them move into.
The residential containers had been empty since 2020.
Earlier this year, over 50 families tried to move in but were evicted by police and private security.
On Sunday, the residents tried again and called Mphahlele for support. He was shot alongside a pregnant woman, who survived.
Mphahlele’s father, Khurishi, described him as a hardworking and selfless person.
“He loved people and helping everyone,” said Khurishi.
Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Mavela Masondo said police are investigating the incident. A case of murder has been opened.
The Gauteng EFF released a statement calling for peace and justice for Mphahlele, who was the party’s Johannesburg deputy secretary.
“The EFF will not rest until those responsible for the death of our fighter are brought to justice. We call for calm and discipline,” said the statement.
Johannesburg mayor Kabelo Gwamanda, former mayor Herman Mashaba, EFF Gauteng chairperson Nkululeko Dunga, and other local officials visited Mphahlele’s home to offer condolences.
Gwamanda promised an investigation into Mphahlele’s death and the issue of unoccupied containers.
Mashaba criticised the government for the high crime rate and praised Mphahlele as a fighter for social justice.
“Alexandra has lost a fighter who thrived on social justice,” he said.
Video: Herman Mashaba says the state should take responsibility for the high crime rate.
Source: Everson Luhanga
Pictured above: Slain councillor Moshe Mphahlele.
Source: Supplied.
