The incident was reported to police at around 05:00 on Friday (13/2). The deceased has been identified as Molefi Sello, an ANC ward 24 councillor in Kanana, Orkney.

Sello, in his early 40s, was found with one stab wound to his upper body in Voortrekker Street, near the Sars offices in the CBD. He was declared dead on the scene by emergency and rescue services, said North West police spokesperson Col Adéle Myburgh.

Police have opened a case of murder and investigations are continuing. Anyone with information may contact the Klerksdorp police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or send tip-offs anonymously via the MySAPS app.

Sello’s death comes amid heightened instability in the municipality. Last month, another Matlosana ANC councillor, Wesley Kgang, 36, who is the local economic development MMC, was arrested for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.

Kgang was later released on bail after a brief court appearance. His case was postponed to next Wednesday (18/2) to allow for further investigations and the finalisation of blood sample results.

Meanwhile, the High Court in Mahikeng recently suspended the Matlosana council’s controversial decision to reinstate its dismissed chief financial officer, Mercy Phetla.

In an urgent ruling delivered by Judge Andre Peterson, the court ordered that the resolution adopted by the council on 4 February which sought to reinstate Phetla may not be implemented pending the final outcome of the matter. The judgment marks a significant legal setback for a council already facing the possibility of provincial intervention.

Police have not indicated whether Sello’s killing is politically motivated. Investigations remain ongoing.

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 OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cvs