The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) confirmed the death of senior member Khethamabala Petros Sithole, who was fatally shot in Katlehong on the East Rand on Saturday evening. Sithole, 68, served as the deputy chief whip in the National Assembly and was a long-standing member of the party’s National Council.
Furthermore, the IFP has condemned the killing as an “assassination” and called for swift justice.
“Details are still sketchy at the moment, and it is the IFP’s expectation that the law enforcement agencies will spare no effort to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice,” the party said in a statement.
IFP MP: A Lifetime of Public Service
Furthermore, Sithole dedicated his life to the IFP, joining the party in his youth and serving in numerous leadership roles. He was Gauteng provincial chairperson and an Ekurhuleni councillor and briefly represented the party in the Gauteng legislature from 2009 to 2010. Since 2010, he has served as a Member of Parliament in the National Assembly, remaining active until his death.
Known for his commitment to community service and party discipline, Sithole was praised by the IFP as “a hard-working servant leader of the people and the country.”
The party added, “The IFP is poorer today with Jobe’s passing, and South Africa has lost a good man who served his country par excellence.”
Police Urged to Act Swiftly
Additionally, the motive for the killing remains unknown. Police have launched an investigation, but no suspects have been identified.
As IFP reels from this loss, one question remains: will justice be swift enough to restore public confidence and honour the life of a man devoted to public service?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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