Increased security for ActionSA mayoral candidate constantly in trouble with the law
Concerns over the state of South Africa’s policing have intensified, with ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba asserting that public trust in the South African Police Service has eroded to the point where citizens are compelled to take crime-fighting into their own hands. This comes as Xolani Khumalo, a figure known for his direct-action approach to combating crime through his show Sizokthola, faces legal challenges in connection with his activities.
Legal Battles and Continued Support
Khumalo is currently navigating two separate court cases. He appeared at the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday regarding an assault alleged to have occurred during filming in December. He is also scheduled to appear at the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday concerning a drug raid that resulted in the death of an alleged drug dealer. Despite these ongoing legal battles and a previous acquittal of murder, robbery, and malicious damage to property charges related to his drug-busting efforts last year, Mashaba has publicly voiced his full support for Khumalo.
A Collapsed System?
Mashaba contends that Khumalo’s actions are a direct consequence of the South African Police Service’s perceived failings. “We support him because he is threatening the livelihood of international drug syndicates,” Mashaba stated. He further argued that the current state of the criminal justice system, highlighted by issues revealed in the Madlanga Commission, necessitates the involvement of individuals like Khumalo. “In a normal society, you would not have Xolani going out to do what police should be doing,” he said.
Mashaba expressed concern for Khumalo’s safety, noting previous threats to his life and stating that ActionSA has taken steps to ensure his protection, though he declined to provide specifics.
Broader Concerns and Political Implications
The criticism extends beyond policing to the government’s broader approach to crime. Mashaba criticized President Cyril Ramaphosa’s deployment of the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) to address crime hotspots in Gauteng and the Western Cape. He believes this action underscores the government’s failure to provide adequate safety for its citizens.
Khumalo’s political ambitions are also unfolding. He was recently sworn in as a councillor in the City of Ekurhuleni, positioning himself for a potential mayoral run under the ActionSA banner. However, his party rejected an offer from Ekurhuleni mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza to serve as MMC community services and by-law enforcement, arguing that the position would not effectively support Khumalo’s crime-fighting efforts and that a coalition under current circumstances would lend credibility to a failing administration.
The possibility of a future alliance between ActionSA and the ANC in Ekurhuleni remains uncertain, with Mashaba indicating it could shift after the upcoming elections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges is Xolani Khumalo currently facing?
Xolani Khumalo is currently facing charges in two separate court cases: one related to an assault during filming in December, and another concerning a drug raid that resulted in the death of an alleged drug dealer.
What is Herman Mashaba’s stance on the South African Police Service?
Herman Mashaba asserts that the South African Police Service has “collapsed” and is struggling to serve and protect South Africans, leading citizens to take matters into their own hands.
Why did ActionSA reject the MMC position offered to Xolani Khumalo?
ActionSA rejected the position because they believe it would not help Khumalo fight crime and that accepting it would lend credibility to an administration they deem responsible for lawlessness and poor service delivery in Ekurhuleni.
As Khumalo continues to navigate the legal system and pursue his political aspirations, the situation raises questions about the future of citizen-led crime fighting and the role of government in ensuring public safety.