20 election-related killings recorded as police investigate 139 cases across South Africa

Twenty people linked to political parties or election activities have been killed during South Africa’s election period, and police have opened 139 cases ahead of Wednesday’s local government elections. Seven arrests have been made in connection with the killings, while 48 people have been arrested for election-related offences overall. Gauteng recorded seven killings and KwaZulu-Natal six; 69 cases remain under investigation, 25 are before the courts and eight have been referred to senior prosecutors. Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa urged parties, candidates and supporters to reject violence and respect voters’ rights.