At least 42 people have been killed in suspected politically linked attacks in South Africa between January and September 2026, according to a report by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime.
The report documented 36 alleged political attacks, with KwaZulu-Natal recording the highest number of incidents at 16. Gauteng followed with 10.
Those targeted reportedly included political party officials, councillors, civic movement members and traditional leaders.
The report comes ahead of South Africa’s local government elections, with concerns that political competition could increase tensions in some communities.
The report also noted that the number of suspected political killings recorded so far in 2026 is higher than the total recorded in any full year since monitoring began in 2015.
Authorities and civil society groups continue to face questions over political violence, access to public contracts and competition for positions within local government.
Monafrika Focus:
The figures put renewed attention on political violence and the safety of candidates, officials and community leaders ahead of the elections.
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