Kenny Kunene has officially stepped down from his roles as Johannesburg MMC for Transport and Patriotic Alliance councillor. This article explores the reasons behind his resignation, the political consequences, and what his departure means for the PA and the city’s future.
In a striking move resonating across South Africa’s political landscape, Kenny Kunene—the controversial deputy president of the Patriotic Alliance (PA)—has tendered his resignation as a proportional‑representation councillor and Mayoral Committee Member (MMC) for Transport in the City of Johannesburg. He did so following his suspension from the PA amidst serious public scrutiny. The resignation arrives after he was found at the Sandton residence of murder‑accused businessman Katiso “KT” Molefe, a development that triggered widespread criticism and demands for investigation (For more details).
In a letter addressed to the Speaker of the Johannesburg City Council, Kunene stated he was stepping aside “in the public interest” to allow his party to investigate allegations—which he declares are unfounded—before considering any return to public life. With this departure, he also relinquished his duties on the mayoral committee responsible for transport.
1. Background: Who Is Kenny Kunene?
Kenny Kunene has led a remarkable and controversial public journey. Starting life in Odendaalsrus in the Free State, he first made headlines as a teacher turned businessman, then gained notoriety as “Sushi King” for lavish parties involving nyotaimori (the controversial serving of sushi from naked bodies). He later entered politics, co‑founding the Patriotic Alliance alongside Gayton McKenzie, and rose to serve as deputy president of the party. In recent years Kunene had taken on public office in Johannesburg, becoming a councillor and eventually serving as MMC for Transport. His blend of celebrity, flamboyance, business ventures, and outspoken public presence have made him a unique political figure.
2. The Incident: At the Home of a Murder‑Accused Figure
The catalyst for his resignation was police activity at the Sandton home of Katiso “KT” Molefe, accused of playing a central role in the 2022 assassination of DJ Sumbody (Oupa John Sefoka) and implicated in other violent crimes. On the day Molefe was arrested, Kenny Kunene was present at the residence. He asserts he was facilitating an exclusive interview for one of his media platforms, and had only arrived shortly before police stormed the premises. Kunene denies any association with Molefe beyond this professional interaction. Despite his explanation, multiple pictures and video evidence showing their proximity have fueled questioning by opposition parties and the public.
3. The PA’s Response and Full Suspension
Within days of the event, Gayton McKenzie, leader of the Patriotic Alliance, issued a suspension letter to Kunene, placing him on leave while an investigation is conducted. McKenzie publicly defended Kunene, stating he believes in his innocence, but insisted that due process must proceed without interference. Kunene is also barred from undertaking any official party activities during the investigation.
He remains formally suspended as PA deputy president and will not perform any formal capacity within the party until cleared.
4. Resignation: Official Statements & Tone
In his resignation letter to City Speaker Margaret Arnolds, Kunene directly states:
- He resigns as a proportional‑representation councillor “effective immediately.”
- He cannot continue as MMC for Transport due to his resignation.
- He will temporarily step aside from public life while the party investigates allegations.
- Although he considers the allegations unfounded, he believes waiting for his name to be cleared is in the public interest.
- He reaffirmed his commitment to the PA’s broader mission and stated his intention to return to service once exonerated.
The tone of the resignation is firm, measured, and duty‑oriented—it emphasizes respect for due process and minimizing reputational damage to both himself and the party.
5. Opposition Reaction and Calls for Deeper Investigation
While some praised Kunene for stepping aside, the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Johannesburg demanded further accountability. DA councillors have formally called for:
- A full forensic audit of procurement and contracts under Kunene’s oversight at Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA).
- Examination of contracts related to Lilian Ngoyi Street repairs.
- Investigations into Metropolitan Trading Company (MTC) procurement, contractor awards, and appointments.
The DA’s Johannesburg caucus leader gave the city executive seven days to respond or face escalation, including legal avenues and law enforcement referral. Critics argue that Kunene’s transport MMC portfolio had substantial oversight over these projects, and thus a thorough review is warranted in his absence.
6. Immediate Aftermath: Liam Jacobs Steps In as Replacement
Following the resignation of Kenny Kunene, Patriotic Alliance (PA) leader Gayton McKenzie moved swiftly to stabilize the party’s position in Johannesburg by naming a replacement. Liam Jacobs, a recent defector from the Democratic Alliance (DA) and former Member of Parliament, will assume the role of MMC for Transport in the City of Johannesburg.
Jacobs, who previously led the DA Students’ Organisation, is seen as a young and ambitious figure aligned with the PA’s emerging vision. His appointment not only ensures continuity in the transport portfolio—a key area where Kenny Kunene had made public commitments—but also positions Jacobs for a larger leadership role ahead of the crucial 2026 local government elections.
According to McKenzie, Jacobs is expected to build upon the momentum initiated by Kenny Kunene, particularly around addressing potholes, improving commuter services, and enhancing service delivery across Johannesburg. These were focal points during Kunene’s tenure, and the PA hopes Jacobs can carry the baton without delay or disruption.
The decision to install Jacobs reflects a dual strategy: maintain the public-facing priorities established under Kenny Kunene, while reinforcing the party’s commitment to integrity and rapid crisis response. McKenzie acknowledged that Kunene remains a respected figure within the party but emphasized that leadership changes—however difficult—are essential when public trust is at stake.
7. Kenny Kunene’s Tenure as MMC: Accomplishments & Criticisms
During his approximately two‑year stint as MMC for Transport, Kenny Kunene positioned himself as a reformer. He focused on:
- Enhancing accessible transport options for Johannesburg residents.
- Addressing waste and inefficiencies within municipal transport systems.
- Challenging bureaucratic hurdles faced by commuters.
- Expressing vision and authenticity in public service, according to his own resignation message.
However, controversy often followed him:
- His flamboyant personal life and charismatic style often drew attention away from policy substance.
- Critics questioned whether his projects under JRA and MTC had been awarded ethically or transparently.
- The transport portfolio he oversaw came under DA scrutiny for potential irregularities—now elevated due to this scandal.
8. What Happens Next: Investigation & Possible Return
Per Kunene and McKenzie, an independent legal firm is to be appointed—within 48 hours—to conduct a full probe into the allegations. Kunene is cooperating fully with the investigation. If cleared, he has signaled willingness to resume public service in both the party and in municipal roles.
Key process steps include:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| PA appoint investigation team | Within 48 hours of suspension |
| Review claims & evidence | Interview Kunene, review documents, access assets |
| Public or private findings | Party to determine whether to publish report |
| Potential reinstatement | If exonerated, Kunene may regain roles |
| Continuous oversight | DA and public pressure to see full audit of contracts |
Meanwhile, Liam Jacobs will carry the transport MMC mantle, ensuring continuity and avoiding political vacuum in that vital portfolio.
9. Broader Political Implications & Public Perception
The resignation of Kenny Kunene has stirred deeper national conversations around ethics, governance, and the evolving dynamics of South African politics. More than a personal departure, it touches on systemic issues that extend beyond the City of Johannesburg.
Firstly, the situation raises alarm over the potential infiltration of criminal networks into political leadership. Allegations surrounding Kunene’s ties to controversial figures have fueled concerns about compromised integrity within municipal leadership structures. Citizens and civil society are demanding greater transparency in municipal procurement processes, especially where public funds and service delivery are concerned.
Secondly, the incident demonstrates the risks of blurred boundaries between personal relationships and public responsibilities. The perception that Kenny Kunene may have acted to shield a known suspect—or even benefit from political optics—has sparked fierce debate over accountability. It places renewed scrutiny on the Patriotic Alliance (PA) and whether it can maintain ethical standards when dealing with internal controversies.
Public reaction has been sharply divided. Supporters argue that Kenny Kunene acted with honour by resigning early, avoiding a prolonged scandal that could harm the PA or Johannesburg’s municipal credibility. However, critics claim his exit may be a calculated move—either as a PR strategy to avoid prosecution or as a distraction from deeper issues tied to governance failures.
Social media platforms have lit up with speculation, memes, and analysis, reflecting how Kenny Kunene continues to capture public attention—not just as a politician, but as a figure who blurs the lines between celebrity and authority. This episode underscores how personalities with high media visibility can both uplift and complicate democratic leadership in modern South Africa.
Conclusion: A Turning Point for Kunene and PA
Kenny Kunene’s decision to resign as Johannesburg transport MMC and step away from his deputy presidency in the PA marks a pivotal moment. It underscores the political risks of proximity to criminal allegations, even if unproven. The Patriotic Alliance’s swift appointment of a successor suggests an effort to maintain operational continuity and public trust, even in turbulent circumstances.
For Kunene himself, the next weeks and months will determine whether he can weather the controversy, clear his name, and potentially return to public service—or whether this chapter irrevocably alters his political trajectory. Meanwhile, critics—particularly the DA—will continue to push for full transparency, especially regarding city contracts under Kunene’s supervision.
As the PA investigation unfolds and Johannesburg awaits further clarity, many will watch whether Kunene’s personal brand of activism and flamboyance can survive the test of accountability.
