Durban - Another activist from shack dwellers movement Abahlali BaseMjondolo in the eKhenana area in Cato Manor has been assassinated.
Lindokuhle Mnguni, the chairperson of the eKhenana Commune and the Abahlali baseMjondolo, Cato Manor branch, was assassinated at the commune on Saturday.
He was asleep with his girlfriend when they came under attack. Mnguni was shot dead while his girlfriend was injured.
Mnguni is the third activist to be killed there in recent months; earlier this year, Nokuthula Mabaso was gunned down outside her home in the same area.
The deputy president of Abahlali in eKhenana Ayanda Ngila was shot and killed in March 2022.
Abahlali described Mnguni as a brilliant young man with a great future ahead of him.
“He was a fearless leader and stood for his community. He was always humble yet strong. He always dedicated his time to the people,” said the organisation in a statement.
“Mnguni is the 24th leader of our movement who has died at the hands of izinkabi (hitmen),” said the statement.
“We are in mourning. Our hearts are heavy. We have lost a real leader with a very bright future. We have lost someone who was prepared to lay down his life for the commune, the movement and the struggle for a world where land, wealth and power are shared and the humanity of all is recognised.
“He had been in and out of prison as a result of fighting for the people of eKhenana. He was a selfless leader who believed that we must fight without compromise against capitalism, imperialism, racism and the thieves and thugs,” said the organisation.
Police said charges of murder and attempted murder are being investigated by Cato Manor SAPS.
“It is alleged that on 20 August 2022 at 02:10, a 28-year-old man was shot and killed while he was asleep with his girlfriend at eKhenana informal settlement.
“His girlfriend sustained injuries on the leg and was rushed to hospital for medical attention. We are also appealing to anyone with information about the suspects involved to contact their local police or Crime Stop on 08600 10111,“ said the police statement.