IN CONVERSATION WITH MARTHA NGOYE

The civil society organisation Defend Our Democracy has expressed shock and outrage following the killing of Ms. Martha Rantsofu, Acting Accountant at the Emfuleni Local Municipality. Ms. Rantsofu was shot and killed in broad daylight in Vanderbijlpark while waiting for her vehicle to be repaired. The nature of the attack, described as execution-style, has raised serious concerns about the safety of public servants and the broader implications for governance and accountability. While the motive for the killing remains unknown, the incident has been widely condemned as an attack not only on an individual but also on the principles of justice, transparency, and democratic governance. The case has been taken over by the Political Killings Task Team, which has been tasked with investigating politically linked and targeted killings. Calls have been made for swift action to identify and prosecute those responsible. The incident has further highlighted ongoing concerns around the safety of whistleblowers, municipal officials, and individuals involved in exposing corruption and maladministration. Civil society organisations 09:35 have stressed the importance of strengthening protections for those working in the public interest. Defend Our Democracy has also expressed solidarity with the family, colleagues, and the Emfuleni community, emphasising the need for accountability and justice. The organisation has called for collective action to address violence, corruption, and impunity, and to safeguard democratic institutions. Instagram · Twitter