The tragic death of Kosabo Thugwana, a respected member of the Ndzundza Mabhoko council, has left his family and community in shock. Thugwana, who was killed on Sunday, 5 January, when unknown assailants riddled his vehicle with bullets, was a well-known figure in various leadership structures, both locally and nationally. His sudden and violent death has sparked an outcry from his family, who are demanding answers from the authorities.
Family spokesman, Phillip Mahlangu, expressed his profound grief, describing Thugwanaβs death as βinconceivableβ and βunbelievable.β Thugwana, who served in both the provincial and national structures of the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (Contralesa), was known for his ability to resolve conflicts and unite people with differing views. He also played an instrumental role in the Ndzundza Mabhoko Traditional Council and other local councils, building a reputation as a peacemaker and a respected community leader.
βItβs hard to accept that such a special and gifted man, a beacon of hope for so many, could have his life taken in such a violent and senseless way,β said Mahlangu, who also shared his personal heartbreak at the loss. According to family members who visited the crime scene, Thugwana was shot seven times, and over 20 bullet cartridges were found on the ground. He was allegedly shot through his carβs windscreen, a detail that has only intensified the family’s pain and confusion over the circumstances of his death.
Mahlangu also voiced frustration over the police investigation into the murder, accusing authorities of failing to communicate with the family or provide updates on the progress of the case. βWeβre deeply worried about the pace of the investigation. From Sunday until now, there has been no contact from the police. We expected more transparency and interaction,β he said. The family has called on the government, including Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, to ensure the case receives the urgent attention it deserves.
In response to the familyβs concerns, police spokesman Brigadier Donald Mdluli confirmed that a dedicated team has been assigned to investigate the murder and that inquiries are already underway. Despite these assurances, the family remains anxious for justice, determined to ensure that Thugwanaβs death is thoroughly investigated and that those responsible are held accountable.