NORTH WEST LEGISLATURE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY SAFETY AND TRANSPORT MANAGEMENT CONDEMNS KILLING OF COMMUNITY ACTIVIST THATO MOLOSANKWE

The North West Provincial Legislature Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management, chaired by Hon. Freddy Sonakile, notes with shock and sadness the sudden passing of community activist, Thato Molosankwe, who was reportedly shot by unknown assailants in the early hours of today in Mahikeng.

The Committee extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.
“Thato was no stranger to the Committee. Whenever he came across information affecting communities, he would share it with me directly and often requested intervention on matters of public concern,” said Hon. Sonakile.

Mr Molosankwe was widely known for his fearless community activism and unwavering commitment to holding authorities accountable. A few years ago, he drew national attention when he cycled from Johannesburg to Mahikeng in an effort to raise awareness about the scourge of Gender Based Violence. He was also known for staging peaceful pickets at the North West Legislature during sittings to voice his dissatisfaction with certain government actions, while consistently using social media platforms to keep communities informed about developments affecting them.

His passing is a significant loss to activism and civic engagement in the North West. The Committee calls on community members who may have information relating to this heinous crime to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. “We further urge the South African Police Service to leave no stone unturned in investigating this matter and apprehending the perpetrators. In a time where whistle-blowers and activists continue to face threats, intimidation, and even death, such acts cannot be allowed to become a tool for fearmongering or silencing voices within our communities.

“May Thato Molosankwe rest in peace. He was not a perfect man, as none of us are, but his heart was firmly rooted in the struggles of ordinary people. May his death not be in vain, and may it strengthen the resolve to continue the fight for justice, accountability, and the emancipation of our communities,” said Hon. Sonakile.

Ends

Issued on behalf of the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management – Hon Freddy Sonakile.

For media enquiries please contact Ms. Namhla Luhabe on 079 527 0628.

Kabo Letlhogela

Media Liaison Officer – Communications

North West Provincial Legislature

Tel : (018) 392 7000

Cell : 079 879 1448

Fax : 086 695 3784

email : kabol@nwpl.org.za

Website: www.nwpl.gov.za