IFP probes iLembe councillor facing attempted murder charge
IFP councillor Siphiwe Cele has been charged for attempted murder.
Image: File
THE Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has referred the case of its iLembe District Municipality councillor, Siphiwe Cele, who is facing an attempted murder charge, to its Political Oversight Committee for investigation.
Cele spent last weekend in police custody after allegedly attempting to shoot Vukani Mthembu during an argument. He was granted R1 000 bail by the KwaDukuza Magistrate’s Court.
According to the IFP, the Political Oversight Committee was alerted by the party’s iLembe District structure about Cele’s arrest and related legal matters. The committee is expected to compile a report that will be submitted to the party’s national executive committee, which will then decide Cele’s political future.
IFP national spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa said the matter had been prioritised.
“The IFP views this matter in a serious light, and therefore it is receiving priority attention,” Hlengwa said.
The arrest has reignited political tensions in the KwaDukuza region, with the ANC branding Cele a “known bully”.
ANC regional organiser Nkosenhle Mngadi said Cele’s arrest came as no surprise, describing him as a violent figure with a pattern of intimidation.
Mngadi alleged that this was not the first incident where Cele was caught up in public misdemeanours.
Mngadi said Cele was aggressive towards them during a by-election in a Mandeni Municipality ward in April.
"He has a history of being abusive towards people and political opponents. When there was a by-election, he stormed the voting station carrying a gun and threatened his opponents. What he did is against the electoral regulations," said Mngadi.
Mngadi urged police to ensure that Cele faces the full might of the law.
"We commend the police for taking this matter seriously to protect innocent people. We appeal to the police to thoroughly investigate this matter so that they can get evidence that will help in the conviction of this criminal.
"We also implore members of the community to provide information that would help the police in their investigation," said Mngadi.
Mngadi also urged the police to prioritise witness protection to mitigate against interference in the case.
"We also appeal to the criminal justice system to use this case to send a strong message to those who terrorise the community," said Mngadi.