VANDERBIJLPARK. – Fearless and vocal Democratic Alliance (DA) Member of Gauteng Legislature (MPL) and Gauteng North constituency leader, Kingsol Chabalala was shot three times on Friday.
Chabalala is fighting for his life in an undisclosed hospital.
At least three bullets were removed from his body after he was stabilised in hospital.
Police said Chabalala had just arrived at his home in Vanderbijlpark last Thursday at about 20:25 when the incident took place. Police spokesperson Sergeant Gertrude Makhale said, “He was approached by two armed unknown males. A case of attempted murder and robbery has been opened. No arrests have been made.”
It is said that only Chabalala’s cellphone seems to be the only thing missing. Chabalala has been vocal and instrumental in uncovering widespread corruption and the lack of service delivery in the Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM). Mike Moriarty, Gauteng DA MPL chief whip, has sent his heartfelt support to Chabalala, his family and loved ones. “We condemn the barbaric attack and call on law enforcement to act swiftly to bring these criminals to book.”
Chabalala is well-known for his fiery anti-ANC position. He was one of the first people to break the news about the alleged R1,7 million overspending on KFC, Nandos and local hotels by ELM Mayor Simon Mofokeng. “The brutal attack is reflective of South Africa’s volatile political climate, which is marked by intolerance and the most extreme cases of political killing,” said the DA’s Moriarty.
The DA said they are expecting proactive updates from the Gauteng Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Deliwe de Lange. ELM Mayor Simon Mofokeng has condemned the incident.
“Kingsol has been vocal about several service delivery matters affecting our municipality, a situation which made for a vibrant and progressive council.
“He has strengthened democracy in the council and its duties. I wish Kingsol a speedy recovery so that he can resume his role on the opposition benches,” said Mofokeng.
