MTHATHA – The South African Communist Party (SACP) in the Eastern Cape has learnt with shock, anger and profound sadness of the brutal killing of Comrade Ernest Fipaza (63), from Bende Locality in Dutywa who was reportedly gunned down at his home on the night of 23 October.
SACP district spokesperson Vuyani Ndevu said Fipaza was an active member of their movement and a contestant for the councillor position in Ward 10 of the Mbhashe Local Municipality ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
He said his tragic death is a devastating loss to his family, comrades, friends and the broader community.
“The SACP in the Eastern Cape condemns this senseless act of violence in the strongest possible terms. The killing of a political activist in the sanctuary of his own home raises grave concerns about the safety of political activists and the ability of our people to participate freely in democratic processes without fear, intimidation or violence,” he said.
Ndevu added that no individual should lose their life for serving their community, participating in political activities or exercising their democratic rights.
He said political violence has no place in South Africa’s constitutional democracy, and those responsible for this killing must be identified and brought to justice through a thorough and impartial investigation.
“We call upon the South African Police Service (SAPS) to urgently investigate the circumstances surrounding his killing, pursue all available leads and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
“We further call on community members who may have information that could assist the investigation to come forward through appropriate channels.”
Ndevu added that the SACP in the Eastern Cape extends its heartfelt condolences to the Fipaza family, his loved ones, comrades and all those whose lives were touched by his commitment to community service.
He confirmed that they stand in solidarity with the bereaved family during this painful period and call for the necessary support to be extended to them.
As they approach the 2026 local government elections, this tragic incident underscores the urgent need to safeguard political activists and ensure that all political formations can participate in electoral processes without fear of violence or intimidation.
“We call on all political parties, community structures and law enforcement agencies to work towards an environment of peace, tolerance and respect for democratic rights. We must not allow violence to silence political participation or undermine the democratic gains achieved through the sacrifices of our people. Those who resort to violence must be held accountable, and the right of every person to participate in political life must be protected.”
The Provincial Commissioner of the Eastern Cape, Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata, has condemned the fatal shooting of Fipaza and has announced the deployment of maximum resources to augment the local investigation team.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana confirmed that according to information in police records, on Friday evening at around 19:30, two unknown suspects arrived at the victim’s home and argued with him.
“The argument escalated into a physical altercation and it is alleged that one of the suspects drew a firearm and fatally shot him. It is further alleged that they pointed firearms at the victim’s son and demanded the deceased’s firearm. They were shown a safe, which they broke open, but did not find any firearm before fleeing the scene.”
She added that the suspects are still at large. Police have opened a case of murder with an additional charge of house robbery.
“A task team from the Provincial Serious and Violent Crime Investigation Unit has been assigned to investigate the case.”
Anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects is urged to contact the leader of the investigating team on 071 475 2292. Information may also be shared anonymously via Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
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