Lungani Zungu
The IFP has suspended its Msinga mayor who was accused in the murder of another party councillor last month.
The party announced on Tuesday that Mletheni Ndlovu was suspended with immediate effect after he was released on bail for carrying an illegal firearm.
Party councillors Thokozani Sokhela and Mhawukeleni Sokhela suffered the same fate.
During the recent funeral of councillor Siyanda Magubane, the mayor was publicly accused of murdering him.
Ndlovu and his two bodyguards Msawenkosi Lionel Malembe and Mvikeleni Mzolo were arrested on Friday.
The mayor is accused of failing to lock away a firearm in a prescribed safe.
His bodyguards were each granted a R1,000 bail.
Ndlovu’s bodyguards are charged with unlawful possession of a firearm as well as unlawful possession of ammunition.
“Cllr Mletheni Ndlovu, Cllr Thokozani Sokhela and Cllr Mhawukeleni Sokhela are directed to take a leave of absence from all municipal activities and responsibilities with immediate effect, and are hereby placed on suspension from all Party activities,” said the IFP in a statement.
The deputy mayor of Msinga Thenjiwe Busisiwe Mbatha will act as mayor.
The party said Ndlovu’s suspension is not linked to the death of party councillor Magubane who was gunned down last month.
“As previously indicated, the IFP relies on the SAPS-led investigation on this matter. The IFP will accordingly take decisions on the basis of the due processes of the investigation.”
The matter was postponed to 21 November 2022.
The chilling allegations that Ndlovu was the mastermind in the death of party councillor Magubane were at Magubane’s funeral last month which was also attended by Ndlovu.
IFP supporters who attended the funeral stirred when Ntuli made the allegations.
An internal investigation cleared Ndlovu of any involvement in Magubane’s death.
Repeated attempts to reach him were unsuccessful as his phone rang to voicemail.
Pictured above: Mletheni Ndlovu
Source: Facebook
