A Suspension by Any Other Name

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.'

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.

Timeline of Events

• Police arrest Molefe, find Kunene on premises
• leadership holds emergency meeting
• McKenzie announces leave of absence live on social media

What Comes Next?

• Coalition negotiations with DA, ActionSA, and others
• Appointment of independent investigators
• Potential permanent removal if evidence emerges