Julius Malema Claims Assassination in Death of EFF's Moshe Mphahlele at Funeral Service

Emotions ran high at the funeral of slain Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) councilor Moshe Mphahlele, as EFF leader Julius Malema made explosive allegations, suggesting that Mphahlele's death was not a casualty of protest but a targeted assassination. The funeral service, which was held in Polokwane, Limpopo, became a platform for the red berets to demand justice and reflect on the gravity of the housing crisis in Alexandra, Johannesburg.

A poignant memorial service had been previously held at the Sankopano Community Centre in Alexandra, highlighting the tense milieu surrounding Mphahlele's demise, who was shot during a demonstration in Bramley — a stone's throw from Alexandra. The protest was a response to the occupation of municipal flats, a sensitive issue engulfing the area.

Malema, in a fervent address to mourners and supporters, accused certain forces of isolating and deliberately assassinating Mphahlele. He condemned the lack of arrests following the incident and criticized the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) for their failure to exert authority over private security during the fatal event. The EFF has unequivocally demanded that JMPD officials present at the scene be held accountable.

In a twist that has added more complexity to the situation, Mgcini Tshwaku, City of Joburg's Public Safety MMC, revealed that several JMPD officers had been suspended in the wake of indications that live ammunition was used against Mphahlele.

Amidst the grief, Malema also seized the moment to honor the dedication of Mphahlele to the EFF and his unwavering support among the electorate. He pledged that the EFF would apply pressure on the Johannesburg council to address homelessness in Alexandra, particularly by allocating containers — initially designed as temporary shelters during COVID-19 — to those who qualify.

Moreover, Malema levied heavy criticism at President Cyril Ramaphosa for falling short on his promises to build one million houses in Alexandra, labeling the president's past assurances as dishonest. Housing in Alexandra has been a flashpoint for criticism, with opposition parties labeling the shelters erected during the pandemic as wasteful, given they remained largely unoccupied.

The death of Moshe Mphahlele has thus acted not only as a solemn event to mourn a fallen public servant but also as a catalyst for deeper reflection on the systemic issues plaguing Johannesburg's residents, particularly regarding housing and public safety. The allegation of an assassination has surged into the public consciousness, demanding a rigorous investigation and transparency from local authorities.

In a climate where discontent over living conditions and governance simmers, the call for justice for Mphahlele grows louder from the EFF and the community. This tragedy, now entwined in political and social discourse, signifies the profound challenges and responsibilities that lie ahead for South Africa's leadership.