Two jailed for life over murder of uMngeni DA chief whip Nhlalayenza Ndlovu

Two men have been sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of uMngeni Democratic Alliance (DA) chief whip and councillor Nhlalayenza Ndlovu, the KwaZulu-Natal Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) said.

Convictions after guilty pleas

The Pietermaritzburg Regional Court secured convictions against Khayelihle Shabalala and Thabo Mathonsi, who both pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit murder and murder, the PKTT said.

Attack in front of family

Ndlovu was shot dead on December 5, 2023, at his home in Mpophomeni while his wife and children looked on, the report said. Police identified Shabalala as the gunman and said Mathonsi allegedly coordinated the killing from prison.

Investigation continues

The investigation remains ongoing, with a fifth suspect, Mnelizi Zuma, arrested last week in Mpophomeni in connection with the murder. He is expected to appear in the Howick Magistrate’s Court on Friday, September 4, 2026, for a formal bail application.

Once the bail proceedings have been concluded, the police said Zuma will join the other accused alleged mastermind Chief Simphiwe Zuma and alleged spotter Thobani Hlongwa before the Pietermaritzburg Regional Court for indictment proceedings.

Police response

Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane welcomed the life sentences and praised the PKTT for securing convictions.

“We specifically commend the KwaZulu-Natal Political Killings Task Team investigators for their commitment, professionalism and dedication to ensure that perpetrators behind political killings and violence are serving their time behind bars and ensure that justice is served,”

“These members remained focused on their responsibility and mandate to investigate political killings and ensure that families and fellow politicians find closure,”

The police said the sentences send a strong message that politically motivated violence will not be tolerated.