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Defend Our Democracy has condemned the brutal daylight murder of Martha Rantsofu, senior clerk at Emfuleni Local Municipality, who was shot while waiting for her car’s tyre to be repaired in Vanderbijlpark.
The activist group described the murder of Rantsofu as a heinous act and a direct assault on justice, accountability, and democracy, highlighting the devastating impact on her loved ones.
It further emphasized that such violence and intimidation should never befall public servants who devote their lives to serving communities.
“Currently, we do not know the motive behind her murder. However, the execution-style attack that killed her, with multiple bullets, clearly shows that the perpetrator intended to ensure her death.
Brutality not tolerated under democracy
“This brutality cannot be tolerated in a democratic society,” said spokesperson Andries Sibanyoni.
“We commend the Political Killings Task Team for taking over Rantsofu’s assassination case and urge them to act swiftly and decisively to arrest the perpetrators and bring them to justice.”
Sibanyoni highlighted that this tragic incident underscores the urgent need to protect whistleblowers, municipal officials, and all individuals who stand against corruption and maladministration.
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He added, “Violence cannot be allowed to silence those who work with integrity in the public service. We stand in solidarity with the family of Rantsofu and the community of Emfuleni during this time of grief.
“Her life and service must not be forgotten, and her death must serve as a rallying cry for all South Africans to defend our democracy against violence, corruption, and impunity.”
