The Democratic Alliance in the Western Cape is mourning the death of Stellenbosch DA Councillor and Mayco Member Xolile Kalipa who was brutally gunned down in Kayamandi.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg said Stellenbosch detectives are investigating a murder case after Sunday night's brutal attack.
He reports: “The circumstances surrounding a shooting incident on Sunday, 4 May 2025, at about 9.26pm in Kayamandi's Swart Street, where a 54-year-old male was shot and fatally wounded are under investigation.
"Stellenbosch police responded to a complaint of a shooting and upon arrival on the scene they found the victim with gunshot wounds to his chest.
"The victim was declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel. The motive for the attack forms part of the police investigation. The suspect/s fled the scene and are yet to be arrested."
The DA in the Western Cape released a statement condemning the brutal murder and urge the South African Police Service to act swiftly to capture the murderers.
The release reads: “Xolile was known as a gentle, true servant of the people, worked tirelessly to uphold the DA’s values and championed the residents he served.
"He served as Cape Winelands District Councillor over two periods before his election in Stellenbosch Municipality as a PR Councillor in 2021. The former Stellenbosch Mayor saw his potential and appointed him to serve as Mayco Member for Community Services.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to Xolile’s family, friends, community and colleagues. The DA will monitor the matter closely and we hope the perpetrators will face the full might of the law.”
The Stellenbosch Municipality also took to their social media to extend their heartfelt condolences on the passing of Councillor Xolile Kalipa.
It added: “Councillor Kalipa was a much-loved and deeply respected community leader. He served as a Proportional Representation Councillor for the Democratic Alliance and was an active member of the Mayoral Committee, where he held the position of Portfolio Chairperson for Community Services.
"His contributions to the work of Council and his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of residents will be remembered by all who had the privilege to work alongside him.
Executive Mayor Jeremy Fasser expressed his profound shock and sorrow at the news, saying: “I am devastated by the loss of Councillor Kalipa.
"He was a dedicated public servant, a voice for the voiceless and a pillar of strength in his community. His passion for uplifting our people – especially the youth and women as part of his Community Services Portfolio – was evident in everything he did.
"We have not only lost a colleague, but a friend and a true champion for social development.”