Resorting to Violence  to sort out their political differences 

Lephalale – ANC members reportedly involved in a shooting incident during a branch general meeting (BGM) in Lephalale on 19 June are likely to face criminal charges and disciplinary action from the governing party. Two people were shot and 16 were assaulted and injured in an altercation between party members that turned violent. 

Police spokesperson Brigadier Mojalefa Mojapelo said police are still investigating cases of attempted murder, assault, malicious damage to property and public violence. Describing the incident, he said:

“Two people were shot and many were assaulted. A number of vehicles were also damaged.” 

Machetes, pangas, knobkerries, and other sharp objects were used during the commotion. It is generally assumed that the violence is linked to ANC factional squabbles. 

The shooting incident is a huge blow to the ANC in the Waterberg District, which has since called off all of its activities in Lephalale until safety and security concerns are fully addressed. 

Luthuli House has also voiced its concerns.

“While there has been no loss of life, it remains a source of great concern for the ANC that scores of people were seriously injured as a result of the scuffles that ensued during the BGM,” ANC national spokesperson Pule Mabe said.