Former Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane, now a senior leader in the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, has opened a case with police after a disturbing voice note surfaced online allegedly plotting her assassination.
Mkhwebane, who has recently been involved in factional disputes within the MK party’s Mpumalanga structures, confirmed that she approached the South African Police Service (SAPS) on 11 October following the circulation of a voice note in which a man, believed to be senior party member Abednego Mkhatshwa, expresses hatred towards her and talks about plans to kill her.
“I have opened a case with SAPS… This threat cannot be taken lightly. Political killings are a reality in South Africa,” said Mkhwebane.
She accused Mkhatshwa, who allegedly holds ambitions to lead the party in the province, of treating her as a political rival after reportedly failing in his role as the party’s provincial secretary.
MK Party Condemns Voice Note
The MK party’s Nkangala region, to which Busisiwe Mkhwebane belongs, has released a strong statement condemning the threat.
The region confirmed the voice note as authentic and warned that such rhetoric could inspire violence.
“The comrade’s voice is heard clearly… These threats are dangerous and could incite harm against comrade Mkhwebane,” the statement read.
The party has called on authorities to investigate the incident and discipline Mkhatshwa if found guilty. It also demanded a written apology from him.
Mkhatshwa has not responded to media queries, and attempts to reach him were unsuccessful, with his phone reportedly switched off.
No Elective Conference Fuels Infighting
Political analyst Dr Ntsikelelo Breakfast said the assassination threat highlights deeper structural issues within the MK party, particularly the absence of an elective conference to democratically choose its leadership.
“Decisions are being made in the dark. Members are unclear about leadership processes, and this leads to internal power struggles,” said Breakfast.
He warned that if the MK party does not resolve these governance issues, it risks damaging its image and losing potential voter support – despite being seen as a rising force that could capitalise on dissatisfaction with the ANC.
“People are fighting for positions because they know the party has the potential to become one of the biggest in the country – and with that comes power and benefits,” Breakfast added.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdluli declined to comment, stating that the case was still under review and more information was needed.
