The fiance of the late uMzimkhulu councillor Mduduzi Tshibase broke down while testifying before the Moerane commission sitting in Durban.
Phumza Diko wept as she tried to share with the commission her difficulties in raising their children without a father.
She told the commission that Tshibase had known after the death of uMzimkhulu municipality speaker Khaya Thobela that his life was also in danger.
Tshibase was ambushed at the gate of his home a month after the death of Thobela in May last year.
Diko says Tshibase had indicated that the enemies were from the political arena.
Quizzed by evidence leader advocate Bheki Manyathi, Diko agreed that Tshibase’s enemies were from his own political party, the African National Congress (ANC):
While no arrests have been made as yet, Diko says the investigators update her on monthly basis.
She said his death at the age of 39 left a huge void.
“We were working together, and assisting each other to continue with life, but later we were unable to even communicate over the phone, because he was reluctant since he suspected his phone was bugged. He preferred that we meet in person – even if he visited us he would not stay long, or until late, because it is not safe… he was always highlighting the fact that things were not going well within the ANC. We knew about the intimidation, but we didn’t think it will happen to him the way it happened… so soon. It is so painful because even my child will grow without knowing his father.”
The commission has been adjourned to the 23rd of this month.
