Sinovuyo Dyokwe, a Democratic Alliance (DA) ward candidate, was fatally shot in Du Noon, Milnerton, on Saturday evening. According to Western Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Novela Potelwa, the 48-year-old was killed by a gunman on foot in Mnandi Street while returning home from a voter registration venue.
What are the details of the shooting?
The incident occurred at approximately 6pm on Saturday. Potelwa stated that preliminary reports indicate the deceased was shot in Mnandi Street.
Provincial serious violent crime detectives are currently at the scene as part of the murder investigation. As of the latest police update, no arrests have been made.
Dyokwe previously stood as a DA candidate for Ward 104 in Dunoon during a March by-election, where the party’s vote share increased to 16%.
Why was Dyokwe at the registration venue?
Dyokwe had spent the day registering and re-registering DA voters. The shooting took place during the Electoral Commission of SA’s final voter registration weekend before the upcoming election.
In a joint statement, DA members JP Smith and Nicholas Gotsell said the party was in shock. They described Dyokwe as a “reliable and effective community activist” who was instrumental in growing the party’s voter base in Dunoon.
The timing of this incident during the Electoral Commission’s final registration weekend highlights the potential risks faced by political activists during active election cycles. The loss of a candidate who contributed to significant vote growth could impact local party dynamics in the Dunoon area.
What could happen next?
The provincial serious violent crime detectives will likely continue their investigation into the circumstances of the shooting. The DA has stated they will monitor the situation to seek justice for Dyokwe’s family.
The party has also arranged counseling for Dyokwe’s family, friends, and colleagues following the incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who was Sinovuyo Dyokwe?
She was a 48-year-old Democratic Alliance ward candidate and community activist. - Has anyone been arrested?
No, Brigadier Novela Potelwa confirmed that no arrests have been effected yet. - Where did the shooting occur?
The shooting took place in Mnandi Street, Du Noon, Milnerton.
How does political violence impact voter engagement during registration weekends?