Two men have been sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of uMngeni Democratic Alliance (DA) chief whip and councillor Nhlalayenza Ndlovu, in what police have described as another major breakthrough in the fight against politically motivated killings in KwaZulu-Natal.
The KwaZulu-Natal Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) secured the convictions of hitman Khayelihle Shabalala and Thabo Mathonsi, who both pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit murder and murder in the Pietermaritzburg Regional Court on Thursday.
Ndlovu killed in front of family
Ndlovu was gunned down on December 5, 2023, at his home in Mpophomeni while his wife and children looked on.
His killing sparked an intensive investigation by the KwaZulu-Natal Political Killings Task Team, which has since arrested several suspects allegedly linked to the assassination.
According to police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Mukhathi, Shabalala was identified as the gunman who carried out the murder, while Mathonsi allegedly coordinated the killing from prison.
Fifth suspect due in court
Mukhathi said the investigation remains ongoing, with a fifth suspect, Mnelizi Zuma, arrested last week in Mpophomeni for his alleged role in the murder.
He is expected to appear in the Howick Magistrate’s Court on Friday, September 3, 2026, for a formal bail application.
Once the bail proceedings have been concluded, Zuma will join the remaining accused, alleged mastermind Chief Simphiwe Zuma and alleged spotter Thobani Hlongwa, before the Pietermaritzburg Regional Court for indictment proceedings.
Chief Simphiwe Zuma is accused of orchestrating the murder of his nephew, Ndlovu.
Police welcome convictions
Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane welcomed the life sentences, praising the KwaZulu-Natal Political Killings Task Team for securing convictions against those responsible for political killings.
Dimpane said the sentences send a strong message that politically motivated violence will not be tolerated, particularly ahead of the upcoming local government elections.
“We specifically commend the KwaZulu-Natal Political Killings Task Team investigators for their commitment, professionalism and dedication to ensure that perpetrators behind political killings and violence are serving their time behind bars and ensure that justice is served,” Dimpane said.
“These members remained focused on their responsibility and mandate to investigate political killings and ensure that families and fellow politicians find closure,” she added.
sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za
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