Former Stellenbosch Deputy Mayor Nyaniso Jindela Killed in Kayamandi Shooting
Nyaniso Jindela, the 59-year-old former deputy mayor of Stellenbosch, was tragically shot dead on the evening of June 9, 2025, in Kayamandi, a township on the outskirts of Stellenbosch. The fatal shooting occurred around 8:00 PM in Vineyard Street, where Jindela was found with a gunshot wound to the throat. Despite the swift arrival of medical personnel, he was declared deceased at the scene.
The news of Jindela’s death has left the Stellenbosch Municipality in shock, with officials expressing deep sorrow for the loss of a distinguished public servant. Jindela had served as a councillor and later as deputy mayor, contributing significantly to the local community and the Western Cape region. His untimely death has sparked widespread condemnation and concern, particularly given the unsettling circumstances surrounding his past.
A Troubling History: Ties to Political Murders
Jindela’s death is especially alarming given his previous involvement in a high-profile political murder case. In 2021, Jindela, along with his wife Unathi and several others, was arrested in connection with the 2019 murder of former deputy mayor Cameron Mcako. The murder of Mcako was believed to have been politically motivated, raising questions about the deep-rooted tensions within local politics.
Jindela had been out on bail at the time of his death, with his trial for Mcako’s murder scheduled for July 2023. While no official charges have been filed against Jindela in Mcako’s death, the links between the two incidents are sparking renewed speculation.
Motive Remains Unclear
The Western Cape Police have launched an investigation into Jindela’s murder, though as of now, no arrests have been made, and the motive for the shooting remains unclear. Authorities are exploring all possibilities, including any potential political connections or personal disputes that may have contributed to his death.
Residents of Kayamandi are reportedly shaken by the violent incident, as Jindela was well-known in the community, both for his political role and his longstanding involvement in local affairs.
The Shocked Response from Local Leaders
Local leaders, both from the Stellenbosch Municipality and beyond, have reacted with disbelief. Stellenbosch Mayor has expressed condolences to Jindela’s family, acknowledging his service to the municipality and the community. “Nyaniso Jindela was a dedicated public servant, and this loss is felt deeply by all of us who worked with him,” the mayor stated in a public release.
This tragic event highlights the ongoing issue of political violence in South Africa, particularly in regions where local governance can be fraught with tensions, rivalries, and accusations of corruption.
The Path Forward: A Call for Justice
As the investigation unfolds, there is a collective hope for swift justice and answers regarding the motive behind Jindela’s death. Meanwhile, residents and political figures alike are left grappling with the unsettling reality of violence continuing to claim lives within South Africa’s political landscape.
