ANC Member Linked to Death Threats Against Knysna Mayor Ahead of Tense By-Election

Tensions are running high in Knysna ahead of the Ward 8 by-election, following disturbing death threats directed at the town’s newly elected mayor, Thando Matika.

The threats, made in a WhatsApp voice note that has since circulated widely, prompted the mayor to open a case with police. Authorities confirmed that a suspect—reportedly an ANC member—has already been identified, although no arrests have been made.

According to SAPS spokesperson Malcolm Pojie, the matter is being handled by the Provincial Detectives’ Serious and Violent Crime Investigations unit. The case is being prepared for review by the Senior Public Prosecutor.

The ANC Youth League (ANCYL) in the Victor Molosi Region was among the first to raise the alarm, condemning the threats as part of a coordinated effort to destabilise governance in Knysna.

“These malicious efforts aim to undermine the progress and harmony achieved by the Mayor and his team,” the ANCYL said in a statement. “We take these threats with the utmost seriousness.”

The group referenced a tragic past incident, where a councillor was gunned down outside his home, warning that history must not be allowed to repeat itself.

ANC spokesperson Moyisi Magalela confirmed that the person behind the threats is indeed an ANC member, though not part of the party’s leadership structures.

“We were told some people recognised the voice in the note. The individual speaks critically about the mayor’s leadership and even suggests past attempts on his life,” said Magalela. “Given our history, we urged the mayor not to take this lightly.”

The Knysna Municipality has since met with SAPS and assured the public that the security of its officials is being prioritised. However, a scheduled public consultation meeting on the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and budget had to be postponed.

“These threats undermine not only individual safety but also the community’s right to participate in democratic processes,” said municipal spokesperson Christopher Bezuidenhoudt.

Mayor Matika has not yet commented publicly on the matter.

The upcoming Ward 8 by-election, sparked by the resignation of former mayor Aubrey Tsengwa, is seen as a critical political contest, and authorities are urging calm as tensions mount.

{Source: IOL}

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