BRITS — The Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) in the North West has called for an immediate, in-depth investigation into the shooting of Madibeng Local Municipality Municipal Manager, Quiet Kgatla, describing the attack as an act of cowardice and terror.
The incident occurred on Wednesday evening at approximately 18:00. Kgatla, 42, was driving home from work along Zilkatznek, just outside Brits, when he was ambushed by gunmen.
According to North West provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh, the suspects were driving a Volkswagen Polo TSI with Gauteng registration plates. The gunmen opened fire on Kgatla’s vehicle.
He survived the targeted attack but sustained two gunshot wounds to his leg and arm. He is currently recuperating in hospital.
MRM provincial convenor, Pastor Lesiba Kgwele, strongly condemned the shooting on Saturday, urging law enforcement to act swiftly.
“No one will be safe for as long as trigger-happy and heartless hitmen are still roaming around our streets and neighbourhoods,” Kgwele said. “The perpetrators, as well as those behind them, should be unmasked and speedily removed from society to neutralise the threat that they pose to local government administration.”
Kgwele wished Kgatla a speedy recovery and appealed to the local community for calm. He further urged members of the public who may have information regarding the VW Polo or the shooters to come forward and assist police investigators in uncovering the motive behind the hit.
“It is critical that a comprehensive threat analysis should be urgently conducted and proactive steps be taken to safeguard the lives of those whose lives could be at risk particularly as we approach the 2026 Local government elections,” he emphasised.
Kgwele emphasized that building trust requires both immediate accountability and long-term education. He urged the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) and law enforcement to ensure a safe, conducive environment. The period leading up to the 4 November 2026 Local Government Elections (LGE) is critical, as communities will rely on these platforms to evaluate candidates and hold current leadership responsible for local service delivery.
Police are investigating a case of attempted murder. No arrests have been made yet.
