A senior South African politician has been suspended and stripped of his government role following his controversial presence at the home of an alleged murder mastermind. Kenny Kunene, deputy president of the Patriotic Alliance (PA) and Johannesburg’s transport chief, faces a month-long political hiatus and an independent investigation after being linked to Katiso “KT” Molefe, the man accused of orchestrating the 2022 killing of musician DJ Sumbody.

PA leader Gayton McKenzie confirmed Kunene’s suspension on Tuesday, stating he would formally request the City of Johannesburg to relieve him of his mayoral committee responsibilities during the probe. “He must step back from politics for one month,” McKenzie said, adding that investigators of “good character” would examine the incident. Kunene admitted visiting Molefe’s residence but claimed he was assisting a journalist from his media outlet, Africa Global News, to secure an interview.

The explanation drew sharp criticism from opposition parties. Democratic Alliance (DA) Johannesburg caucus leader Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku dismissed the justification as “laughable,” asserting, “No, Kenny, you were not at a murder suspect’s house to ‘drive a journalist there.’” She accused the PA of maintaining ties to criminal networks, amplifying scrutiny on Kunene’s alleged connections. The suspended official maintains he had no prior relationship with Molefe and called his presence coincidental.

The controversy stems from the unsolved murder of DJ Sumbody, born Oupa John Sefoka, who was ambushed hours before a scheduled performance in Woodmead two years ago. Recent police breakthroughs led to four arrests, including three alleged hitmen and Molefe, who is accused of planning the attack. Investigators revealed the firearm used in the killing has been connected to multiple crimes, though no trial dates have been set. Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed the ongoing probe but declined to comment on Kunene’s involvement.

The case has reignited debates about political accountability in South Africa, particularly as coalition governance becomes increasingly common in major cities. Kunene’s suspension marks a rare instance of a party disciplining its own leadership over alleged criminal associations, though critics argue the move may be driven by mounting public pressure. As legal proceedings unfold, the incident underscores persistent concerns about the intersection of crime, media, and political power in the region.