The political heat around Kenny Kunene has intensified. Patriotic Alliance (PA) leader Gayton McKenzie has officially removed Kunene from his position as Johannesburg Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Transport, and suspended him from all party activities, as a full-scale investigation gets underway.
In a decisive move announced earlier today, McKenzie confirmed that a team of lawyers and advocates will be appointed to probe Kunene over a 30-day period. While the full scope of the investigation has not been made public, the move follows a series of controversies surrounding Kunene — including his visit to the home of a suspect in the DJ Sumbody murder case.
“Until this investigation is concluded, Kenny Kunene will not represent the Patriotic Alliance in any capacity,” McKenzie stated, describing the decision as necessary to protect the integrity and public image of both the party and the City of Johannesburg.
Kunene’s removal as MMC for Transport comes as a serious blow, not only to his political standing, but also to the PA’s position in Joburg’s delicate coalition governance. The flamboyant and outspoken politician had been a central figure in the city’s transport plans, but his recent actions — particularly his unexplained presence at a murder suspect’s home — have triggered widespread concern.
While Kunene maintains he has done nothing wrong and claims he did not know the man was linked to the DJ Sumbody case, McKenzie is taking no chances. “Leaders must be held to a higher standard. We can’t ignore optics, perception, or accountability,” he said.
The 30-day inquiry promises to either clear Kunene’s name or redefine his future in the party. For now, the Patriotic Alliance is sending a clear message: no one, no matter how senior, is untouchable
