Picture: AbaThembu King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo vs Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane
By Thabo Mosia
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane has officially opened a case against AbaThembu King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo following public accusations made by the king, alleging that Mabuyane benefitted from extortion activities within the province. This development marks an intensifying political and legal conflict between two significant Eastern Cape figures, drawing widespread attention to the growing issue of extortion in the region.
The accusations by Dalindyebo emerged in the context of increasing criminal activity, particularly extortion, which has plagued the Eastern Cape in recent months. Dalindyebo specifically accused Mabuyane of being involved in extortion schemes linked to illegal business practices. In response, Mabuyane swiftly moved to deny the allegations, calling them baseless and a distraction from the real issues affecting the province.
Mabuyane’s office released a statement affirming that the premier had no involvement in any illegal activities and that the accusations are part of a smear campaign. “I have been consistent in my calls for stronger law enforcement to address the rising levels of crime and extortion in our province. These allegations are not only untrue, but they are also harmful to the efforts we are making to create a safer Eastern Cape,” said Mabuyane.
Extortion-related crimes have been on the rise in key areas of the province, particularly in Mthatha and Gqeberha, both of which have been identified as hotspots for organised crime and gang activity. The Eastern Cape government, in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), has deployed additional police resources to combat these criminal activities. In a recent press release, Mabuyane praised the increased police presence and the crackdown on organised crime, highlighting ongoing efforts to restore peace and security in affected communities .
King Dalindyebo, however, stands by his claims and has continued to publicly criticise Mabuyane for what he describes as the premier’s alleged involvement in corrupt dealings. These tensions come in the wake of the death of Chief Dalinzolo Mareke, who was reportedly involved in extortion activities and was killed during a police operation in Mthatha. Dalindyebo has linked Mabuyane to Mareke’s dealings, escalating the feud between the two leaders .
Despite the escalating public dispute, Mabuyane has maintained that the matter should be handled legally rather than through the media. “These are serious allegations, and we must let the law take its course. I will not engage in a media back-and-forth with the king, but I will ensure that my name is cleared through the appropriate legal channels,” Mabuyane stated during a recent interview .
The ongoing legal case has sparked a wider debate in South Africa about the relationship between traditional leadership and political power, with some voices criticising Mabuyane’s decision to take legal action against a king. Critics argue that it is inappropriate for a political leader to challenge traditional authority in this way, potentially exacerbating tensions between the government and traditional leadership structures .
In the meantime, the Eastern Cape government continues to focus on tackling the root causes of extortion and gang violence in the province. Mabuyane has reiterated his commitment to addressing these issues, citing the government’s recent successes in dismantling extortion rings and bringing criminals to justice. This includes the successful seizure of weapons and the arrests of several individuals involved in extortion schemes.
The deployment of multidisciplinary teams from SAPS, including detectives and intelligence officers, is seen as a critical step in addressing the surge of crime in the Eastern Cape. The provincial government is also encouraging communities to work closely with law enforcement by reporting any suspicious activities and supporting the efforts to restore peace and order
⬇️⬇️
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
centralnewsza #freestate