Political killings and threats put Western Cape election candidates on edge

At least seven suspected political killings were reported in the Western Cape during the first nine months of 2026, as death threats and intimidation disrupt campaigning ahead of the November 4 local elections. The victims include ANC councillor Aubrey Tsengwa, shot dead in Knysna; DA ward candidate Sinovuyo Dyokwe, killed in Dunoon; and BOSA candidate Leon Ngcikwe, shot dead in Gugulethu. Nationally, GI-TOC recorded at least 43 deaths in 45 suspected political attacks during the same period. GOOD mayoral candidate Brett Herron said a councillor who is also an election candidate was advised to leave home with his family and suspend active campaigning after receiving death threats.