Kenny Kunene Returns to Johannesburg Council After Being Cleared in Forensic Probe
politic
2days ago
Behind Kunene's 'Leave of Absence': The Political Calculus of the PA's Crisis Move
By GlobalZa
Experts dissect McKenzie's damage control strategy as coalition partners demand answers
A Suspension by Any Other Name
JOHANNESBURG, 23 July 2025 - Political analysts suggest Gayton McKenzie's characterization of Kunene's removal as a 'leave of absence' serves dual purposes: maintaining party unity while appeasing coalition partners. 'This is classic crisis management,' says UJ political studies professor Susan Booysen. 'They avoid admitting wrongdoing but create space for investigations.'
READ: Patriotic Alliance MMC Resigns Amid Ties to Alleged Murder Syndicate Member
The DJ Sumbody Connection
The murder case dates back to November 2022, when the popular DJ and two bodyguards were gunned down. Recent breakthroughs tied Molefe—the suspect at whose home Kunene was present—to the crime through ballistic evidence. Kunene insists he was there to arrange an interview for his media venture, African News Global.
READ: "Wrong Place, Right Reasons" – Kenny Kunene Breaks Silence on Molefe Arrest Scene
Timeline of Events
- Police arrest Molefe, find Kunene on premises
- leadership holds emergency meeting
- McKenzie announces leave of absence live on social media
READ: Vusi "Cat" Matlala’s Bail Bid Stalls Over Offshore Wealth and Fake ID Allegations
What Comes Next?
- Coalition negotiations with DA, ActionSA, and others
- Appointment of independent investigators
- Potential permanent removal if evidence emerges
