A City of Umhlathuze councillor and pastor was fatally shot while preaching a church sermon on Tuesday.
Councillor John Myaka, 58, who represented the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), was shot dead in front of congregants at his home in eNseleni Township near Richards Bay.
City of Umhlathuze Mayor Xolani Ngwezi said Councillor Myaka played an integral role in the municipality’s coalition government led by the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP). He described Myaka as a respected, committed and diligent representative.
Ngwezi conveyed his condolences to Myaka’s family, the ACDP and congregants, saying the community had lost a principled representative.
Municipal spokesperson Bongani Gina said witnesses reported that a man shot Myaka while he was preaching. Two other gunmen allegedly fled after the shooting.
Gina praised Myaka for his “exceptional service” and for resisting all attempts at corruption.
Speaker of Umhlathuze Municipality Councillor Tobias Gumede led other councillors in paying tribute to the Myaka family.
Police are investigating the murder but no arrests have been made yet.
