The ANC in the Alfred Nzo Region is in mourning following the fatal shooting of comrade Nelisile Xolo in what the party has described as a tragic ambush. According to a statement issued by ANC Alfred Nzo Region’s communication unit, Xolo was attacked by unknown gunman in the late hours of Friday where he was shot multiple times. Police have since launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing, but the motive remains unclear at this stage.
As per the statement released, Xolo was a long-time activist who dedicated his life to the liberation struggle. He previously served as Regional Chairperson of the ANCYL in Alfred Nzo, and at the time of his death, held two positions within the alliance. He was the district treasurer of the SACP and also the ANC branch chairperson of the Nonqulana branch in the Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Sub region. The party remembered him as a leader shaped by defiance against injustice. “His youthful days were defined by his radical stance and defiance against injustice,” the statement read. “He committed his life to the liberation struggle until his very last days.
Delivering a tribute during Xolo’s memorial service, ANC Alfred Nzo Regional Chairperson Cde Tsileng Sobuthongo called for calm among comrades, family and friends, and urged that law enforcement agencies be allowed to uncover facts. Sobuthongo said the party is also calling on the Political Killings Task Team to come on board to ensure that no stone is left unturned. She added that should Xolo’s untimely death be found to be politically motivated, it will be up to the movement to deal with bad elements within its own ranks.