Ramaphosa Orders Police Action After 43 Political Assassinations Ahead of Elections

Rising Political Violence Ahead of Elections

President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a directive to law enforcement agencies, urging them to arrest and prosecute those responsible for political killings. This comes as South Africa prepares for its local government elections scheduled for November 4. Political violence, particularly the targeted killing of councillors and candidates, has cast a shadow over the democratic process.

Threats to Democratic Gains

Speaking during an ANC campaign in eMaGabheni, KwaZulu-Natal, Ramaphosa emphasized the dangers posed by ongoing attacks. He highlighted that the killings seek to undermine South Africa’s democratic foundations and the right of citizens to elect their representatives freely.

“Those who are killing councillors, those who are killing candidates are really seeking to destroy the efficacy of our democracy.”

The rise in political violence, particularly in the lead-up to key elections, raises concerns not only about the safety of public representatives but also about the capacity of political parties to campaign without fear or intimidation.

Scope of the Violence

Between January and September this year, at least 43 suspected political assassinations were recorded, along with 45 other politically related attacks, according to the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime. These incidents have been documented across seven provinces, including KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, the Eastern Cape, North West, and the Western Cape.

The violence has not been directed at any single party but has affected various political factions and public representatives. Candidates and members from the ANC, DA, and EFF have all suffered recent losses, heightening the sense of urgency across the political spectrum.

Notable Incidents

• Two ANC members were shot dead during a door-to-door campaign in Umgababa, KwaZulu-Natal on October 15. While police have not confirmed a motive, political intolerance remains under investigation.
• In June, DA candidate Sinovuyo Dyokwe was killed in Dunoon, Cape Town.
• ANC councillor Thabang Masemola was killed in Mamelodi East, Gauteng, in July 2025.
• EFF member Aaron Makola was found dead in Delmas in June this year.

Ramaphosa’s Call for Justice

The president has publicly condemned the murders, stressing that such acts are an affront to the will of South Africans. He has called for an uncompromising approach from law enforcement.

“We condemn the killing of councillor candidates, whether serving or prospective, in the strongest terms. And that is why I’ve called on the police to pursue those who are responsible for these murders, catch them, have them prosecuted.”

Ramaphosa underlined that the continuous targeting of candidates and campaigners undermines the democratic process, and such violence cannot be tolerated in a country that has worked hard to build its democratic institutions.

Protecting South Africa’s Democracy

Ramaphosa has reiterated the importance of protecting South Africa’s democracy from attempts to intimidate or eliminate those participating in elections.

“We cannot accept that in a democracy, and South Africa has a very strong and functioning and robust democracy, we will not allow it to be destroyed or even to be set back by the actions of those who are killing those who are either contesting or campaigning.”

The president’s comments reflect broader public concern about the impact of political violence on the country’s stability and the integrity of the electoral process. Attacks on individuals involved in politics not only diminish personal safety but threaten national progress and the sense of free political competition that underpins a healthy democracy.

With elections imminent, the importance of safeguarding every citizen’s right to participate in free and fair elections has never been more crucial. The recent spate of killings has prompted both condemnation and a call to action. While details on investigations and arrests remain limited, the president’s heightened call for justice places clear responsibility on security agencies to ensure accountability and restoration of public confidence.

Efforts to counter political violence will likely remain in public focus as communities and political parties navigate the final days of the campaign season. Ensuring a peaceful environment for all participants remains essential for the continuation and strengthening of South Africa’s democracy.