The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) has called for stronger measures to curb political violence and killings ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections following a series of deadly incidents across the country.
The call comes after a violent weekend in which a by-election candidate was shot dead in Cape Town, a ward councillor was gunned down in Gqeberha, and two men affiliated with a political party were killed on the West Rand.
SALGA expressed its condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, describing the attacks as a threat to South Africa’s democratic values.
“These incidents are not isolated. They form part of a deeply concerning pattern of violence that often intensifies around election time,” the association said.
According to SALGA, data from its Municipal Violence Incident Reporting (MVIR) system shows that hundreds of incidents ranging from threats and intimidation to killings have been recorded in the local government sphere since 2000. The organisation noted that incidents of violence tend to increase during election periods.
SALGA warned that political violence undermines democracy by creating fear among public representatives and discouraging citizens from participating in governance.
“No one should ever lose their life simply for participating in democratic activities.” The SLGA organisation said.
The association has urged law enforcement agencies to act swiftly and decisively in investigating the recent killings and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice. It further called for political killings to be treated as priority crimes, with increased police visibility in areas identified as violence hotspots.
SALGA said prosecutions should be expedited and that those found guilty must face severe consequences to send a clear message that violence has no place in democratic processes.
The organisation also appealed to political parties, candidates and communities to uphold peaceful democratic principles and reject intimidation, inflammatory behaviour and factional violence.
Political parties, SALGA said, have a responsibility to manage internal disputes responsibly, promote tolerance among supporters and cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies.
As the country prepares for the 2026 Local Government Elections, SALGA reaffirmed its commitment to working with government, law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and ensure the safety of councillors and communities.
The association warned that protecting democracy requires collective action and that political competition should never become a reason for violence or loss of life.
Don’t miss what’s happening in your area. Subscribe for updates.
