DUTYWA, Monday 26 October 2026 — Eastern Cape police have assigned specialised investigators to the killing of South African Communist Party (SACP) Ward 10 candidate and Mbhashe councillor Ernest Fipaza, whose death has raised concerns about the safety of political representatives ahead of the 4 November local government elections.
The 63-year-old was shot dead at his home in the Bende area near Dutywa on Friday evening.
Police are investigating murder and house robbery, while the SACP has called for urgent action against those responsible.
Specialised investigators assigned
Eastern Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana confirmed that the Provincial Serious and Violent Crime Investigation Unit had been assigned to investigate the killing.
Police said two unidentified men arrived at Fipaza’s home on Friday evening.
An argument allegedly developed into a physical confrontation before one of the men drew a firearm and shot him.
The suspects allegedly threatened a family member and demanded access to Fipaza’s firearm.
They subsequently fled the property.
Police have opened an investigation into murder and house robbery.
No arrests had been confirmed in the latest available reporting.
Eastern Cape police commissioner Lieutenant-General Vuyisile Ncata has condemned the killing and ordered additional investigative resources to assist the case.
SACP raises election safety concerns
The SACP has expressed concern about the safety of its representatives during the election period.
Fipaza was identified by the party as its Ward 10 candidate in the Mbhashe Local Municipality.
SACP Ncumisa Kondlo District chairperson Siphelele Mateta called for those responsible to be apprehended and prosecuted.
Mateta said political representatives should be able to serve communities without fear.
The party has also raised concerns about reports of threats against political activists in other parts of the Eastern Cape.
According to regional reporting, the SACP intends to bring these concerns to the attention of the Electoral Commission.
The party argues that intimidation and violence could undermine political participation in affected communities.
Motive has not been established
Although the killing occurred during an election campaign, police have not established that Fipaza was targeted because of his political activities.
Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
The house robbery investigation remains part of the case.
The distinction is significant because the victim’s political position does not, on its own, establish a political motive.
The investigation will need to determine whether the killing was connected to criminal activity, political disputes or other circumstances.
Election preparations continue
The killing comes as political parties prepare for municipal elections on 4 November.
Concerns about threats and attacks against councillors and candidates have featured in discussions about election security.
The SACP has called for law-enforcement agencies to ensure that political representatives can campaign and participate in public life without intimidation.
The specialised investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding Fipaza’s death and identify those responsible.
Police have appealed for information that could assist the investigation.
