The KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, mourns the tragic loss of Councillor JF Myaka and sends sincere condolences to his grieving family and friends.
Councillor Myaka, served as a Proportional Representative Councillor within the City of uMhlathuze Municipality and was a respected pastor. Regrettably, he was fatally shot in Nseleni Township, Richardsbay, on Tuesday afternoon while delivering a sermon in front of his congregation.
The recurrence of such a distressing incident within our local government is profoundly unfortunate. We implore the law enforcement agencies to promptly take decisive action to bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice. These acts of violence not only claim innocent lives but also instigate instability within our local municipalities.
During this trying time, our heartfelt condolences go out to the Myaka family, friends and the entire council of uMhlathuze Municipality. Councillor Myaka, like all councillors, had a solemn duty to represent the interests of our people within the council. It deeply concerns our department when councillors fall victim to such tragic circumstances.
The loss of dedicated public servants is a blow to our democratic principles and impedes the progress we strive to achieve. Councillor Myaka’s untimely demise serves as a somber reminder that we must unite as a society against the senseless violence that threatens the very fabric of our communities.
We call upon citizens, community leaders, and law enforcement agencies to collaborate in establishing a safer environment for all, ensuring that those responsible for this reprehensible act are held accountable.
In memory of Councillor Myaka, let us recommit ourselves to upholding the values of peace, unity, and democracy within our communities. Together, we can create an environment where our public representatives can fulfill their duties without fear, and where citizens can actively participate in local governance for the betterment of all.
May the soul of Councillor JF Myaka find eternal rest, and may his family and loved ones find solace and strength in this time of immense grief.
Issued by MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi