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ActionSA strongly condemns the brutal and senseless killing of former two-time world boxing champion Zolani “Last Born” Tete, who was reportedly gunned down outside his home in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape.

Tete was not merely a boxing champion. He was a proud son of Mdantsane, an inspiration to young South Africans and an ambassador for our country on the international sporting stage. His achievements brought immense pride to South Africa and his contribution to boxing will remain part of our sporting heritage.

The circumstances surrounding his death are deeply disturbing. A man who dedicated his life to sport, discipline and inspiring others should not have had his life violently taken away at his own home.

What makes this tragedy even more painful is that Tete was reportedly preparing for his return to the ring. At just 38 years old. He still had much to offer to South African boxing and to the next generation of athletes.

As ActionSA, we extend our deepest condolences to the Tete family, his friends, his team, the boxing fraternity and the people of Mdantsane and the Eastern Cape.

We also wish a speedy recovery to the woman who was injured in the attack and remains in hospital.

This tragedy must once again compel South Africa to confront the devastating levels of violent crime that threaten the lives of our citizens, including those who have brought honour and distinction to our country.

We call on the South African Police Service to conduct a thorough and urgent investigation and to ensure that those responsible are brought before the courts. We must not allow another murder of a prominent South African to simply become another statistic.

Our athletes represent the best of South Africa. They carry our flag across the world, inspire our children and demonstrate what is possible through hard work, discipline and perseverance. They deserve to live, work and return home safely.

The killing of Zolani Tete is not only a loss to his family and to boxing. It is a loss to South Africa.

As the sport, arts and culture fraternity, we continue to build environments that develops our athletes both inside and outside the arena.

We mourn a champion. We mourn a son of South Africa. We mourn a life taken far too soon. May the legacy of Zolani “Last Born” Tete live on to inspire many others.

Issued by ActionSA Joburg MMC for Sport, Arts and Culture Tshepo Mashiane