Kenny Kunene temporarily removed from PA leadership amid DJ Sumbody murder scandal
The suspended Patriotic Alliance Deputy President and City of Johannesburg’s Transport MMC, Kenny Kunene.
image: Kenny Kunene X account
by Mathipa Phishego
The political sphere has been rocked by controversy following the temporary removal of Patriotic Alliance (PA) Deputy President and Johannesburg Transport MMC, Kenny Kunene, from multiple positions within the party and municipal structures. The move comes after Kunene was found at the home of a murder suspect during a high-profile police operation.
Kunene has been suspended from his role as PA Deputy President, removed as a City of Johannesburg councillor, and stripped of his position in the mayoral committee (MAYCO). He has also been ordered to halt all political activity pending an internal investigation by the party.
The scandal unfolded after law enforcement authorities arrested a suspect, Katiso Molefe, on July 21 in connection with the assassination of popular music figure DJ Sumbody. Kunene was found at Molefe’s residence during the arrest an incident that immediately sparked public outcry and demands for accountability.
In his defense, Kunene stated that he was at the scene to supervise an exclusive interview being conducted by his media team. He acknowledged his presence at the suspect’s home but denied any personal relationship with Molefe. “I was there with my team of journalists. This was about an exclusive story,” Kunene told the press, attempting to distance himself from the allegations and public suspicion.
Despite his explanation, public sentiment remains overwhelmingly critical. Social media has been abuzz with commentary questioning the nature of his visit and its implications. One user on X voiced the skepticism shared by many, “what was he doing at the mastermind’s house who orchestrated the killing of our beloved artist, we loved DJ Sumbody? Is Kenny now a chauffeur for journalists?”
In a public statement, PA President Gayton McKenzie confirmed the suspension, emphasizing that the decision was made to protect the integrity of the party. “We have suspended Kenny pending an investigation. However, I stand by him. I believe in his innocence until proven otherwise,” said McKenzie. While McKenzie’s support may offer Kunene some political cover, the incident has cast a long shadow over the PA’s internal cohesion and public image.
DJ Sumbody, whose real name was Oupa John Sefoka, was gunned down in a brazen shooting in 2022. The unresolved nature of his murder and the celebrity surrounding his name have only intensified public scrutiny of anyone linked, directly or indirectly, to the case. With an investigation now underway, the political future of Kenny Kunene and perhaps the integrity of the Patriotic Alliance itself hangs in the balance.
