The African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal has welcomed the sentencing of convicted hitman Nhlanhla Lungelo Hlongwa to 15 years in prison for the murder of party leader Zibuse Mlaba.
Mlaba, who was the former ANC deputy chairperson in KZN, was shot and killed on October 21, 2021, at Wareing’s Shopping Centre, outside his office.
The provincial ANC said that, while the sentencing provides some closure, it has also reopened the profound scars of anguish, betrayal, and loss inflicted by this atrocious act of criminality.
It added that Mlaba’s murder was not politically motivated but rather a premeditated act of greed.
“Comrade Mlaba’s life was not claimed in the turbulence of political contestation, but through a calculated and financially incentivised act of malice,” the ANC said.
Court proceedings revealed how the assassination was arranged ‘with chilling precision’ and paid for with R130,000.
The ANC commended law enforcement agencies and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for ensuring that at least one of the perpetrators was held accountable.
“However, justice remains incomplete until the alleged mastermind and all individuals involved in this heinous crime are held accountable.”
The party hailed Mlaba as a respected leader and community builder, noting his service as a former Deputy Provincial Chairperson of the ANC in KZN and Chief of KwaXimba.
“His killers sought to silence a voice of reason, but they have only strengthened our resolve to continue his work and honour his legacy,” said the ANC.
The organisation warned those behind political and contract killings that impunity would not prevail.
“Those who paid for this murder, those who planned it, and those who benefited from it must all account. Let this case serve as a warning to all who believe they can buy death to silence leadership: the ANC will never bow to fear, and the long arm of justice will reach every hand stained with the blood of our comrades.”
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