By Johnathan Paoli
Gauteng police have launched a manhunt and are appealing to the public for information following the fatal shooting of Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) deputy chief whip and MP Khethamabala Petros Sithole, in what his party has called an assassination.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili confirmed the incident and said the motive for the attack remained unknown.
“It is reported that a group of men had a meeting at Buyafuthi hostel in Katlehong on 31 May. At about 5.30pm, three unknown men passing by the meeting opened fire on the group,” Muridili said.
Muridili confirmed that Sithole was declared dead at the scene, while two others were taken to hospital with gunshot wounds.
While no arrests have been made yet, investigations are ongoing.
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward and contact the Crime Stop toll-free line on 08600-10111
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for justice.
The Economic Freedom Fighters issued a statement on Monday, describing Sithole’s killing as a “tragic assassination”.
EFF spokesperson Sinawo Thambo extended condolences to Sithole’s family, friends and colleagues, and urged law enforcement to act swiftly.
“We are deeply disturbed by the violent and senseless killing of a public representative. The assassination of Mr Sithole, a long-standing leader within the IFP, is a tragedy that calls for urgent and thorough intervention by law enforcement,” Thambo said.
RISE Mzansi caucus whip Makashule Gana echoed the sentiment, warning that the murder highlighted the fragile state of political tolerance in the country.
“Mr Sithole’s alleged assassination is a reminder of the high levels of crime in our society. We must jealously guard the principles of our constitutional democracy. RISE Mzansi calls for the SAPS (SA Police Service) and the National Prosecuting Authority to work together to ensure justice is served,” he said.
The African Transformation Movement also mourned Sithole’s passing, with party president Vuyo Zungula describing him as a committed public servant who rose through the ranks with passion and integrity.
“His tragic passing, under such violent circumstances, is a profound loss not only to his party but to our nation,” Zungula said.
The Film and Publications Board, which had worked with Sithole in his role on the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies, honoured his commitment to ethical leadership and governance, describing his death as a loss to the public service.
Sithole served the IFP from his youth and rose to become Gauteng provincial chairperson and a respected national leader.
He was known for advocating community development, political accountability and youth empowerment.
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