Kenny Kunene faces internal party investigation and calls for permanent removal following his controversial visit to the residence of murder suspect KT Molefe.
Kenny Kunene Suspended Over KT Molefe Visit
Patriotic Alliance (PA) leader and Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has suspended his party deputy, Kenny Kunene. This drastic move follows revelations that Kunene was present at the home of Katiso “KT” Molefe — the alleged mastermind behind the 2022 murder of popular artist DJ Sumbody.
Kunene confirmed his presence at Molefe’s house on the same day police arrested the suspect. He claims the visit was part of his role in arranging media access for Africa Global News, a publication reportedly linked to him. However, this explanation has not quelled public outrage or political criticism.
Learn about Gayton McKenzie’s role in the PA
McKenzie Orders Investigation and Temporary Removal
McKenzie, known for his no-nonsense leadership style, did not hesitate to suspend Kunene from all party activities for one month. He also stated that he would formally request the City of Johannesburg to remove Kunene from his role as MMC (Member of the Mayoral Committee) for Transport during the investigation. McKenzie emphasised that lawyers of high integrity would conduct the internal probe.
He remarked, “Kenny Kunene will be investigated by lawyers of good character. While he’s being investigated, I’ll write to have him removed as MMC.”
Watch more on DJ Sumbody’s murder case
Doubts Surround Internal Party Probe
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Johannesburg has expressed serious concerns over the PA’s internal processes. DA caucus leader Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku dismissed the one-month suspension as a mere “paid holiday” and called for Kunene’s permanent removal.
In a scathing statement, Kayser-Echeozonjoku said, “Nothing short of his unconditional removal will suffice, pending the outcome of both ethics and criminal investigations into his links to suspected murderers.”
DA Johannesburg Official Statements
Kunene’s Media Justification Fails to Convince
Kunene defended his presence at KT Molefe’s residence by stating he was assisting journalists seeking an exclusive interview. The visit, according to Kunene, had journalistic intent and was unrelated to Molefe’s criminal allegations. However, many critics argue that a seasoned politician like Kunene should have exercised better judgment.
The public and media alike are questioning the wisdom and ethics of engaging with individuals under active murder investigation, especially for political figures holding public office.
Public Reaction: Outrage and Distrust
Public sentiment on social media and talk radio has been overwhelmingly critical. Johannesburg residents and PA supporters alike are demanding transparency and accountability. Hashtags like #KuneneSuspension and #JusticeForDJSumbody have begun trending, indicating the growing unrest over this scandal.
Many citizens view Kunene’s actions as not only politically reckless but morally questionable, especially given the gravity of the murder allegations involving DJ Sumbody’s tragic death.
DJ Sumbody’s Legacy and Ongoing Murder Case
DJ Sumbody, whose real name was Oupa John Sefoka, was a beloved musician and businessman. His murder in 2022 shocked the nation and left many questions unanswered. The arrest of KT Molefe — now alleged to be the mastermind — has rekindled public interest in the case.
With Kunene now entangled in the same narrative, focus has shifted back to DJ Sumbody’s legacy and the demand for justice.
Read Cassper Nyovest’s tribute to DJ Sumbody
Political Fallout for the Patriotic Alliance
This scandal could have far-reaching implications for the PA, a party already navigating turbulent political waters. McKenzie’s swift action may be an attempt to contain reputational damage, but critics argue it may be too little, too late. The PA has long positioned itself as a party of integrity and accountability — a narrative now at risk.
Opposition parties are seizing the moment, framing the incident as evidence of deep ethical failures within the PA.
Johannesburg Governance Under Scrutiny
The role of MMCs in Johannesburg’s city governance is already under public scrutiny due to service delivery concerns. Kunene’s scandal adds fuel to the fire, raising concerns over vetting and oversight processes for senior city officials.
Citizens and civic organisations are now calling on Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero to take decisive action — not just for optics, but for the integrity of the municipal government.
Calls for National Political Oversight
This incident has sparked broader calls for ethical oversight across all political parties. Some civil society groups are urging the Electoral Commission and Parliament to set up clearer guidelines regarding the conduct of public office bearers, particularly when dealing with criminal suspects.
As South Africa heads into future election seasons, scandals like this could influence voter trust and reshape the urban political landscape.
What Happens Next?
Kenny Kunene’s political fate now rests in the outcomes of two parallel investigations — one internal and one possibly criminal. The public and political opponents alike are watching closely. Should McKenzie fail to take further decisive action, he risks weakening his authority and the credibility of the PA.
Whether this turns out to be a temporary setback or a long-term derailment of Kunene’s career remains to be seen.
Related: DJ Sumbody Murder Weapons Linked to 10 Other Major Cases
