Ward 63 Councillor Arrested for Assault Amid Community Uproar"

"Hidden Fist of Hillbrow: Ward 63 Councillor Arrested for Assault Amid Community Uproar"

By Noko Mabofa Maleka | Insight Jozi News

Hillbrow — a Johannesburg inner-city neighborhood plagued by crime, drug abuse, and urban decay — was thrown into further disarray following the dramatic arrest of Ward 63 ANC Councillor, Xolani Khumalo, for allegedly assaulting a community member during a public registration event.

The June 2025 incident has ignited public outrage and shed light on a deepening leadership crisis in one of the city's most neglected wards. Eyewitnesses at the scene reported that Councillor Khumalo abruptly attempted to shut the gate of the registration venue one minute before official closing time, with community members still outside attempting to enter. His actions sparked immediate confrontation from Mzwandile "Ngema" Nzuza, a local activist known for his vocal stance on transparency and justice.

What followed, according to multiple sources, was shocking: Councillor Khumalo allegedly physically assaulted and choked Mr. Nzuza in front of the crowd. A criminal case was subsequently opened, but the councillor proved elusive — having reportedly vanished from Hillbrow in the aftermath.

However, the law caught up with him on August 2nd, during a regional ANC meeting where Mr. Nzuza, backed by law enforcement, arrived to facilitate the councillor’s arrest. Tensions escalated when several ANC members allegedly threatened Nzuza's life, warning him he would not leave the meeting alive. Despite the threats, police swiftly intervened, placing Councillor Khumalo under arrest and transporting him to Hillbrow Police Station.

This confrontation has left the community reeling. Many residents were stunned to learn that Hillbrow even had a sitting councillor. “We didn’t even know we had a councillor. Just look around — the streets are filthy, hijacked buildings everywhere, people sleeping on pavements, drugs, human trafficking... Where has he been all this time?” asked a visibly frustrated local resident.

The South African Police Service has confirmed the arrest, and the matter is currently under investigation. Meanwhile, due to the chaos and violence associated with the incident, voting registrations and upcoming electoral processes in Ward 63 have been postponed until further notice.

Disturbingly, Khumalo’s alleged behavior is not new to many. Multiple residents claim the councillor is known for his “violent approach and intimidation tactics”. “He beats up people who disagree with him,” said another resident. “It’s like we’re living under a shadow government — invisible leadership and visible fear.”

As the community demands accountability, a broader question emerges: How many more 'ghost leaders' sit in office while their communities collapse? Hillbrow, a once-thriving hub, continues to sink under the weight of misgovernance and neglect.

For now, the people of Ward 63 wait for justice — not just in the courtroom, but in the long-overdue return of dignity, safety, and leadership.