Kenny Kunene, Deputy President of the Patriotic Alliance (PA), has officially stepped down from his position as a Proportional Representation Councillor and as a Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Transport in the City of Johannesburg, igniting discussions of political accountability amid serious allegations.
Kunene’s resignation, effective immediately, comes in the wake of intense public scrutiny regarding his alleged associations with a person linked to a murder syndicate, a matter now subject to internal investigation by the party. In a resignation letter addressed to party leadership, he expressed regret over his decision yet underscored its necessity.
“I regret to inform you that I have tendered my resignation as a Proportional Representation Councillor for the Patriotic Alliance, effective immediately, and will thus be unable to continue as a member of your mayoral committee, responsible for transport,” Kunene stated, reflecting on his responsibilities in local governance.
In a statement exhibiting solidarity, PA President Gayton McKenzie confirmed Kunene would not be engaging in any official role while investigations unfold. He stated, “As a result, he has agreed to cooperate with an investigation, which will be led by a competent legal team. Until such time as he is fully cleared, he has agreed to step aside from his political role in the PA.”
The PA has initiated the selection process for investigators, with McKenzie urging party members to remain steadfast in this “challenging period.”
“I trust that you and all the patriots will join me in remaining resolute during this time,” he remarked, calling for unity and resilience among party faithful. I am stepping aside from public life, for a period, while my party satisfies itself as to certain allegations that have been raised against me,” he said.