Tensions escalated during community meeting as the residents of Meriting extension 2 in Rustenburg, North West wanted to speak out about poor service delivery in the area and what they perceive as mistreatment by their ward councillor, Zenzele Xhinela.
But tensions escalated during a community meeting on Sunday, 6 April when Xhinela drew a firearm during the meeting.
Photos of Xhinela displaying the firearm were shared on social media and he later commented, “I hope you are ready for this”.
According to ANC branch secretary Nolubabalo Siyongwana, Xhinela was forced to draw his licenced firearm to fire a warning shot.
However, residents questioned the necessity of the warning shot.
One of the residents, Gomolemo Modise said: “What was the warning shot for? Who was the firearm aimed at? This wasn’t an isolated incident. It speaks of a broader pattern of neglect from the ward councillor.”
“We don’t condone violence against anyone, but drawing a firearm at a community meeting was completely uncalled for.
The community has long struggled with inadequate services, submitting multiple petitions to Councillor Lebogang Pule’s office, but to no avail.
“The office of the Speaker has continued with its business, ignoring the submissions we’ve made,” said another resident, Caroline Matlanaga.
The community is demanding accountability from Xhinela and Rustenburg Municipality.
“We expect our ward councillor to fulfil his duties as outlined in the Municipal Systems Act. Instead, we are left to struggle with no meaningful response from his office or the speaker’s office,” said resident Tumelo Mosimane.
The residents said the drawing of a firearm will not deter them and they will fight for the services we deserve.
Additionally, it was alleged that three community members were arrested and taken to Boitekong Police Station where they remain in custody without being formally charged.
It was also alleged that a case was opened against Xhinela though he has not yet been arrested.
Daily Sun made several attempts to get comment from the North West police, but there was no response to calls and messages by the time of publishing.
