ActionSA has cancelled a launch of its Ward 25 in eThekwini after an armed attack on its activists on Sunday.
The party cancelled the engagements and the launch in an effort to protect the safety of its members and supporters, including party leader Herman Mashaba.
Mashaba said the incident was unfortunate, especially that a criminal was allegedly trying to kill some of their members.
ActionSA members targeted
“Let me assure you that we are safe, everyone is safe,” said Mashaba.
He also confirmed that the suspect and his co-accused have been arrested. They are expected to appear in court on Tuesday.
Mashaba said they will face three charges, including damage to property, threatening an activist, and discharging a firearm in a public space.
“Zwakele and the team will make sure that they go out to court to make sure that they do not get bail. We are not going to be intimidated by anyone in the new democratic dispensation,” said Mashaba.
Zwakele Mncwango, ActionSA KwaZulu-Natal provincial chairperson, confirmed that there were several shots fired during the incident.
“Fortunately, the perpetrator was successfully disarmed. Unfortunately, one of our activists was physically assaulted and sustained injuries during the altercation,” said Mncwango.
Mncwango said the violent events were a reminder of the ongoing challenge of political intolerance in KwaZulu-Natal.
Violation of rights
“It is a direct infringement on the rights of South Africans to freely support the political party of their choice without fear of intimidation or violence,” said Mncwango.
He said as the country heads towards the 2026 local government elections, political parties should promote peace and mutual respect. It is shameful that the call to improve the lives of South Africans has put them under attack, he added.
He said ActionSA will be in court to oppose any application for bail.
“We commend our supporters and activists for their bravery and quick thinking. It helped prevent further harm,” said Mncwango.
