Councillor Xolile Kalipa was gunned down in Kayamandi on Sunday.
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THE killing of DA Councillor and Mayco Member in Stellenbosch, Xolile Kalipa has been described as a huge blow to the Kayamanda community where he “was a true servant of the people”.
Kalipa, who served as Cape Winelands District Councillor over two periods before his election in Stellenbosch Municipality as a PR Councillor in 2021, was shot dead in Kayamandi on Sunday evening.
“Xolile was known as a gentle, true servant of the people who worked tirelessly to uphold the DA’s values and championed the residents he served. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Xolile’s family, friends, community and colleagues. The DA will monitor the matter closely and we hope the perpetrators will face the full might of the law,” the DA said in a statement.
Police spokesperson Wesley Twigg said the motive for the attack forms part of the police investigation.
“Stellenbosch police responded to a complaint of a shooting and upon arrival on the scene they found the victim with gunshot wounds to his chest. The victim was declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel. The suspect/s fled the scene and are yet to be arrested. Stellenbosch detectives are investigating a murder case,” he said.
The killing has sent shockwaves within the municipality with mayor Jeremy Fasser, saying: ““I am devastated by the loss of Councillor Kalipa. He was a dedicated public servant, a voice for the voiceless and a pillar of strength in his community. His passion for uplifting our people – especially the youth and women as part of his Community Services Portfolio – was evident in everything he did. We have not only lost a colleague, but a friend and a true champion for social development.”
He said Kalipa will be missed for his tireless work in community development and his steadfast representation of his constituents.
“His legacy will live on in the lives he touched.”
The GOOD Party described Kalipa as a soft-spoken, humble, and dedicated public servant.
“He will be remembered as a passionate individual who always had an open ear for the concerns of his community and worked tirelessly to assist those in need. Our hearts go out to the Kalipa family, his friends, colleagues, and the broader Stellenbosch community during this time of immense grief. We mourn alongside you and stand united in the call for peace, justice, and the protection of those who serve our communities,” said Good Party councillor Marius van Stade.
Anyone with any information about the incident can anonymously contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS app.
Cape Times