Tenders trigger tensions

Tensions over municipal tender processes across Limpopo came into sharp focus after two ANC ward councillors succumbed under bursts of gunfire, against the backdrop of the discovery of an arsenal of various calibre firepower.

A special police operation led to the discovery of rifles and pistols, and also military equipment, in Thohoyandou, which could not be immediately linked to political killings, or otherwise.

Limpopo provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Moatshe Ngoepe, on Monday 29 July kept his cards to the chest, regarding the gunning down of Mogalakwena councillors Vaaltyn Kekana and Ralph Kanyane.

He said the media needed to give the police space to investigate the matter, promising updates in due course.

As for the discovery of an arsenal of firearms in Thohoyandou, Ngoepe said no arrests had been made, and that an update shall be dispatched in due course.

Political parties from across the spectrum reacted with shock to the killings, with the Bela-Bela EFF co-ordinator, Sello Moswoeu charging that a contractor in the town abandoned a project due
to similar tensions.

The contractor, he alleged, departed after certain ANC elements solicited money from him.

Moswoeu said, however, that he had confidence in municipal manager Mike Makhubela to preside over proper processes in the town.

Freedom Front Plus Limpopo leader, Marcelle Maritz, observed that the murders pointed to the potential for a bloodbath.

She said the murders of the two brings into sharp focus the vulnerability of officials who are committed to bring an end to corruption.

“The roots of this mayhem runs further than Mogalakwena, and it must be stopped by leadership at the highest level, to prevent the potential for a bloodbath,” she said.

Modimolle-Mookgophong Mayor and DA heavyweight, Marlene van Staden, said her party’s councillors are not involved in any tenders.

“We make sure that we stick to the rules and laws,” she said.

— The BEAT