ANCYL Mourns Eastern Cape Member Killed in Shooting, Calls for Justice

The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) in the Eastern Cape has expressed shock and sadness following the shooting of two of its members in the Mhlontlo Sub-Region, an incident that claimed the life of one member and left another fighting for his life.

In a statement issued on Sunday, 14 June 2026, the ANCYL confirmed that former branch chairperson and South African Youth Council (SAYC) Regional Executive Committee member, Wonela Gontshi, died following the shooting. The organisation also wished a speedy recovery to Ngawonke Bulala, a former ANCYL Provincial Congress Preparatory Committee member, who survived the attack and remains in hospital.

The youth league described Gontshi as a dedicated and disciplined activist whose commitment to the economic emancipation of young people never wavered.

“Comrade Gontshi was a dedicated, fearless, and disciplined activist,” the statement said, adding that his passion and political consciousness had made a significant contribution to communities across the province.

The ANCYL said the loss would be deeply felt within its ranks and urged members to honour Gontshi’s memory by continuing the struggle for a better life for young people and supporting the renewal of the movement.

While mourning the loss, the organisation reaffirmed its commitment to peace, safety, justice and human dignity, condemning all forms of violence and criminality that threaten communities. It stressed that young people should be able to live, learn and work free from fear and intimidation.

The ANCYL has called on law enforcement authorities to intensify efforts to identify and arrest those responsible for the shooting.

“We are calling on the law enforcement authorities to do their utmost best in finding the perpetrators and putting them behind bars,” the statement said. The organisation also appealed to anyone with information that could assist investigators to come forward.

Police have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or whether any arrests have been made.