- The Afrika Mayibuye Movement issued a statement condemning the reckless use of firearms at memorial services following a deadly shooting in Katlehong
- Four people died after a gunman opened fire on a group leaving an ANC member's memorial service in Ekurhuleni on 13 October 2026
- A suspect surrendered to police after the attack, prompting questions about his political affiliations
Source: Getty Images
GAUTENG — The Afrika Mayibuye Movement has publicly distanced itself from allegations linking its members to a fatal shooting at an ANC memorial service in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni, that has left four people dead.
Afrika Mayibuye issued a formal statement on 14 October 2026, one day after the attack. The statement was posted on the party's X account, condemning the use of firearms at public gatherings.
"Mayibuye firmly condemns the reckless handling and discharge of firearms at memorial services, funerals and celebrations," the statement read.
"Guns are not for games. Grief, celebration, political affiliation or any other circumstances cannot justify conduct that endangers human life."
Read the statement on X here:
What happened in Katlehong?
The shooting took place on the evening of 13 October 2026 as a group of people walked along a street after attending the memorial service of an ANC member in the area. An armed man, described as someone known to those present, shot at the group. All five individuals were struck by gunshot wounds to the head.
Two of the victims, both members of the ANC Youth League, were killed at the scene. Emergency services transported the remaining three to hospital for urgent medical care. Two of those patients subsequently died from their injuries, bringing the confirmed death toll to four. The condition of the fifth victim has not been officially disclosed.
Suspect surrenders, motive unclear
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni both travelled to Katlehong on the night of the attack. Lesufi vowed that those responsible would face justice.
Gauteng Provincial Government spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga confirmed that a suspect had surrendered to police following the incident. No details regarding the suspect's identity have been officially released, and authorities have not publicly disclosed a motive for the attack.
Allegations circulating online suggested the suspect may have ties to the Afrika Mayibuye Movement, claims the organisation has not directly addressed in its statement beyond its broader condemnation of gun violence.
The movement called for an end to the practice of firing weapons into the air at public events, describing it as dangerous and unacceptable under any circumstance.
Skeem GP names Mayibuye's Ekurhuleni mayoral candidate
In a related article, Briefly News reported on Themba “Skeem GP” Nzimande’s selection as Afrika Mayibuye Movement’s Ekurhuleni mayoral candidate and the party’s defence of its decision.
The former cash-in-transit offender’s nomination has prompted sharp public criticism and online debate. The party says its choice reflects restorative justice and Nzimande’s personal transformation.
Source: Briefly News
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