SALGA in KZN labels political killings as a ploy to prevent fight against corruption

DURBAN - The  SA Local Government Association (SALGA) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has labelled the killing of politicians as another ploy to prevent the fight against corruption at municipalities.

The organisation briefed members of the media in Durban on Wednesday morning, on concerns about the killing of politicians.

Since the beginning of this year, there have been four politically-related murders in KZN with no arrests made yet. 

SALGA said government has a task to ensure that the upcoming polls are safe for both the electorate and politicians. 

KZN SALGA chairperson Thami Ntuli said the killing of political leaders should be viewed as a direct attack to the country's democracy.

He said not only do the killings affect the delivery of services in various communities - but they also serve as a threat to those who want to see the end of corruption at municipalities.  

"These killers and their handlers have turned politicians into sitting ducks and they have instilled fear in municipal workers who dare stand up when they see acts of corruption."

Ntuli added that of greater concern is that masterminds behind the hits will never be arrested and victims may never get justice. 

The organisation has also urged KZN Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube and the police to stand against the scourge and ensure arrests are made.