Johannesburg – 22 July 2025
Controversial Johannesburg MMC for Transport and Patriotic Alliance (PA) Deputy President Kenny Kunene has been placed on 30-day special leave following his presence at the home of murder-accused Katiso “KT” Molefe during a police raid.
Kunene, who claims he was present in a journalistic capacity to support an online interview for his platform Africa News Global, was found at Molefe’s Sandton residence during the arrest operation last week. Molefe is a key suspect in the murder of popular musician DJ Sumbody.
PA president Gayton McKenzie moved swiftly to suspend Kunene from his party duties and announced that he would be temporarily relieved of his municipal responsibilities. McKenzie has called for an independent investigation, to be led by a panel of external legal experts, stating that the party will not compromise its integrity.
“The party has taken a firm stance. An investigation will proceed, and Kunene will step aside while it runs its course,” said McKenzie during a press briefing.
Opposition parties have expressed outrage, with the Democratic Alliance’s Johannesburg caucus leader, Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku, calling for Kunene’s immediate resignation. “His explanation is laughable. There is no way someone holding such office should be found in the company of a murder suspect,” she said.
Kunene has denied any wrongdoing, asserting he had no prior relationship with Molefe and was there purely in a media-support role. He further claimed that police officers “apologised” to him after realizing his presence was unrelated to the crime.
Despite the explanation, the incident has triggered widespread backlash and raised questions about Kunene’s conduct as a public official.
The investigation is expected to unfold over the coming weeks. In the meantime, Kunene remains off duty from both his city role and party position, as pressure mounts for accountability in a case that has captured national attention.
