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Gayton McKenzie defends Kenny Kunene as Patriotic Alliance deputy gets tied to DJ Sumbody murder suspect in Johannesburg

Gayton McKenzie
Gayton McKenzie

South Africa’s political scene has once again been stirred up—this time over a high-profile murder investigation and a well-known party figure caught in the middle.

Patriotic Alliance deputy leader Kenny Kunene is under intense public scrutiny after being present during the arrest of a suspect in the killing of amapiano artist DJ Sumbody.

While many are raising eyebrows, party leader Gayton McKenzie is standing firmly behind him.


Arrest Raises Eyebrows After Deputy Found at Suspect’s Home

It all started when police moved in on Katiso “KT” Molefe, who is accused of playing a role in the 2022 murder of DJ Sumbody, whose real name was Oupa Sefoka.

The artist and his bodyguard were gunned down in a drive-by shooting in Woodmead—an attack that shocked fans and left the music world reeling.

The real twist? Kenny Kunene was reportedly at Molefe’s home at the exact moment of the arrest.

That’s all it took to set social media and the political sphere ablaze with speculation.


Kunene Says He Was Just There for the Interview

But Kunene is pushing back, insisting there’s more to the story—and less scandal than people think.

According to him, he had arranged for a journalist to interview Molefe, and was simply helping with transport on the day of the arrest.

He also says he had never been to Molefe’s house before and doesn’t even have his contact information.

“There was an opportunity to interview Molefe through someone I know,” Kunene told eNCA.

“I was just facilitating that, nothing more. I had no idea the police were going to show up.”


McKenzie Responds by Putting Kunene on Leave—But Still Shows Loyalty

Despite the public heat, Gayton McKenzie hasn’t turned his back on his long-time deputy.

In fact, he’s doubled down on his support—while still taking some precautionary steps.

On Tuesday, McKenzie confirmed Kunene has been placed on 30 days of “special leave” while the party looks into the matter.

But that doesn’t mean McKenzie has lost faith.


“I Believe Him 100%,” Says McKenzie

In a statement shared on X, McKenzie made it clear that he believes Kunene’s version of events completely.

“I can’t expect everyone to believe him, which is why we’re launching a full investigation,” he wrote. “But I already know he’s innocent.”

He added that Kunene’s biggest “crime” is simply being a socialite who’s always accessible.

“I know this man,” he continued. “I’ll vouch for him a million times. The party has a duty to treat everyone the same.”


Public Reactions Still Mixed as Investigation Continues

The Patriotic Alliance has promised to be transparent with the findings of their internal probe, but the court of public opinion remains divided.

Some say Kunene’s explanation seems plausible.

Others think being present during such a sensitive arrest raises too many questions to ignore.