Alleged ANC member reportedly calls for Jacinta Ngobese to be raped and killed

Controversy has intensified in South Africa after screenshots allegedly showing Sello Lemonka Gemba making violent threats against March and March Movement leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma circulated on social media.

The screenshots reportedly contain disturbing language calling for Ngobese-Zuma to be sexually assaulted and killed, alongside an image of the activist. The alleged remarks have drawn condemnation online and renewed calls for authorities to investigate threats of gender-based violence against public figures.

Ngobese-Zuma has reportedly presented the screenshots as evidence of targeted harassment. She has also linked the alleged conduct to individuals she associates with the African National Congress (ANC) and party secretary-general Fikile Mbalula. However, the material circulating online does not independently establish Gemba’s political affiliation or demonstrate that senior ANC officials were involved in, aware of or responsible for the alleged threats.

The ANC has condemned the reported remarks and called for an investigation. The party has also indicated that it would establish whether Gemba is a member and consider appropriate internal action if his affiliation is confirmed.

Ngobese-Zuma has reportedly opened a criminal case against Gemba at Durban Central Police Station. The complaint is said to include allegations relating to incitement to rape and kill, defamation and the unauthorised sharing of her images.

The South African Human Rights Commission has also criticised the alleged threats, highlighting concerns about online intimidation and violence against women.

The incident has sparked wider debate about political hostility, social media accountability and the safety of activists who express controversial views on immigration and other public issues.

Despite the public reaction, the screenshots must be authenticated before conclusions can be drawn about their origin, authorship and context. Investigators would need to establish who controlled the account and determine whether the alleged statements meet the legal requirements for criminal charges.

Gemba’s response to the allegations and the outcome of the investigation remain unclear. The allegations have not been proven in court, and any criminal liability will depend on the evidence and legal proceedings.

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