Petros Sithole, a prominent figure within South Africa’s Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) and the party’s deputy chief whip in parliament, was shot and killed in Johannesburg on Saturday night. He was 68 years old.
The IFP released a statement confirming Sithole’s death, revealing that he was assassinated in Katlehong, a township located southeast of Johannesburg. The assailants remain unidentified, and the circumstances surrounding the attack are still unclear.
“It is with profound sadness that the IFP announces the tragic and untimely death of Honorable Khethamabala Petros Sithole,” said IFP spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa. “He was murdered in cold blood by unknown individuals. The party urges law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and bring those responsible to justice without delay.”
Sithole was a long-serving member of the IFP’s national council and a dedicated parliamentarian known for his discipline and commitment to party principles. His death has sent shockwaves through the political community, with colleagues expressing outrage and sorrow over the violent nature of his killing.
The Inkatha Freedom Party, originally founded by anti-apartheid veteran Mangosuthu Buthelezi, remains a key political player in South Africa. The party is now led by Velenkosini Hlabisa, who also serves as the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs in the recently formed Government of National Unity (GNU).
The IFP emphasized that Sithole’s assassination is not only a devastating loss for the party but also a serious blow to democratic processes. The statement concluded by calling on the public to remain calm while authorities investigate the matter.
No arrests have been reported as of Sunday morning.