The controversial politician and ex-convict Kenny Kunene has been officially suspended as Deputy President of the Patriotic Alliance (PA), and subsequently stepped down as a councillor and Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Transport in the City of Johannesburg. This dramatic political twist follows mounting pressure over allegations linking Kunene to a suspected criminal, and growing calls for accountability from opposition parties and the public.
Kunene tendered two resignations on Friday — first, stepping down as MMC for Transport, and second, relinquishing his seat as a Proportional Representation Councillor. Both resignations are effective immediately.
“I regret to inform you that I am tendering my resignation as a Proportional Representation Councillor for the Patriotic Alliance, effective immediately,” Kunene wrote in one of his letters, adding: “I am stepping aside from public life, for a period, while my party satisfies itself as to certain allegations that have been raised against me, which are unfounded.”
This comes after PA President Gayton McKenzie issued an official statement earlier in the week announcing Kunene’s suspension as the party’s Deputy President. McKenzie stated the party had initiated a formal investigation, led by a legal team, to probe allegations arising from Kunene’s presence at the home of an alleged member of a murder syndicate.
“These relate to a public perception that his provided reasons for being found at the home of an alleged member of a murder syndicate should be tested,” wrote McKenzie. “He has agreed to step aside from his political role in the PA and will therefore not act or work in any official capacity in the party while on suspension.”
The African Times earlier reported McKenzie’s internal move to suspend Kunene — a decision that at the time had not yet been formalised through public channels. Now, with the public confirmation and Kunene’s own resignation letters, the matter has moved swiftly into the spotlight of Joburg politics.
In both letters of resignation, Kunene maintained his innocence, asserting that the allegations are without merit. However, he stated that stepping down was in the public interest and that he would await the clearing of his name before considering any return to public life.
“During my two years as an MMC, I worked to be a force for good, championing accessible transport, confronting inefficiencies, and challenging systemic rot within our institutions,” said Kunene.
He expressed gratitude to the Executive Mayor, the City Council, PA colleagues, and the residents of Johannesburg for the opportunity to serve.
DA Demands Action, Slams ‘Paid Holiday’
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has called on Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero to act decisively and remove Kunene permanently. DA Johannesburg Caucus Leader Cllr Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku slammed McKenzie’s announcement as “unlawful and misguided,” and warned that internal party processes do not override governance rules.
“Hanging out with suspected murderers and bringing the entire executive into disrepute is punishable, and Morero must act,” she said.
She lambasted what she called a “paid, month-long holiday” for Kunene, asserting that nothing short of unconditional removal would suffice. “Gayton’s social media proclamation that he will suspend Kunene as an MMC has absolutely no legal basis,” she added.
According to the DA, only the Executive Mayor has the authority to remove or reshuffle Members of the Mayoral Committee, and McKenzie’s party political announcements “have no place in the Johannesburg executive.”
A Tumultuous End to a Flashy Political Tenure
Kunene, a former convict turned businessman and politician known for his flashy lifestyle and populist rhetoric, joined the Johannesburg mayoral committee in 2023 as part of a coalition arrangement involving the PA. He oversaw the city’s transport portfolio, often drawing attention for his outspoken views and controversial social media commentary.
He framed his departure from office as temporary, noting his continued loyalty to the party’s mission.
“I remain a loyal patriot towards our broader political mission and will remain dedicated to the upliftment of our communities,” Kunene said.
However, this episode marks yet another internal storm for the PA, which has been navigating a difficult path balancing political ambition with governance realities in the city. Critics argue that the Kunene saga exposes deeper issues of accountability and transparency within the governing coalition.
Investigations Pending
While no formal charges have been brought against Kunene, the PA’s legal investigation is expected to begin soon. McKenzie confirmed that the appointment of investigators is already underway.
“I trust that you and all the patriots will join me in remaining steadfast during this challenging period,” McKenzie said in his statement to party members.
As Johannesburg’s political landscape braces for further shifts, all eyes are now on Mayor Morero — will he accept Kunene’s resignation without further scrutiny, or pursue an ethics inquiry as demanded by the DA and civil society?
For now, one thing is certain: the self-styled “Sushi King” of South African politics has left the building — but his political future remains uncertain.
