Commission hears more on politics, violence and power in KZN
A commission looking into political killings in KZN - and that have plagued Umlazi’s Glebelands Hostel - has heard how the current political landscape is conducive to such violence.
The hostel has been in the spotlight as it's said to house some of the province's most dangerous hitmen.
Social scientist, Paulus Zulu, is giving testimony in the Moerane Commission of Inquiry today. His extensive research into hostel living goes as far back as the 70s.
Zulu says politics today has changed considerably since the 80s - when those involved in political violence were recruited as foot soldiers and there was a general cause such as fighting the previous regime.
ALSO READ: Former Glebelands resident testifies in Inquiry
He says political violence today has evolved to target leaders in influential positions.
Zulu has also told the commission that one of the reasons KZN is a site for more political violence than any other province is that it usually holds the highest number of votes which tends to shape the direction of the country’s politics.
To date, about 90 people have been killed in Glebelands. Arrests are yet to be made.
The Commission has also heard that a culture of unhealthy competition has given birth to a thirst for blood.
ALSO READ: Inquiry: 'Hitmen from Glebelands hired in political attacks'
Zulu says this culture exists mainly in the political sphere and taxi industry. But, he says traits can also be found in cases of so-called xenophobia.
"It's not that we shall put better spaza shops and outperform or sell our goods at reduced prices or some marketing gimmick that will enhance our product. To me, there is an elimination culture. It doesn't go down well. One thing I've noticed with South Africa, we are a nation that does not want to be criticised," he said.