"I will admit that I was present, but I did not do it," said Harris Mkhwanazi.

The 32-year-old father of four, one of two men accused of murdering ANC councillor Mthembeni Shezi (also known as Msizeni Ximba), told the court he did not know his co-accused Russel Mofokeng.

A nervous looking Mkhwanazi said he knew who had committed the crime, but that Mofokeng was not involved.

He said he was too afraid to reveal their identities in court, which was packed to capacity with ANC members.

The two men have been accused of firing several shots into a meeting held at the Imbaliyethi High School in Chatsworth's Welbedacht area on September 26.

Shezi, branch deputy chairman Sbu Mpanza, and ward committee member Bulelani Mjoli, were wounded. Shezi died in hospital the next day.

Mkhwanazi was arrested shortly after the shooting. Mofokeng was arrested on October 9, but his arrest and first court appearance were not publicised by police.

Prosecutor Blackie Swart told the court police had a confession from Mkhwanazi. He said Mkhwanazi was involved in the planning.

Mofokeng and Mkhwanazi face one charge of murder, two counts of attempted murder, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

The State is opposing bail.