A hitman’s confession in the Pietermaritzburg High Court has implicated high-ranking political figures in the 2017 assassination of former ANC Youth League leader Sindiso Magaqa.
Sibusiso Ncengwa has pleaded guilty to his role in the murder through a formal plea agreement. His statement alleges that the conspiracy to kill Magaqa involved senior ANC officials and municipal executives. The late Mluleki Ndobe, a former mayor and deputy speaker, is named as allegedly being involved. Ndobe, who was previously linked to the case, died by suicide in 2020.
The confession states that Magaqa was targeted because of his work uncovering corruption in the Umzimkhulu municipality. Ncengwa claims the murder was a premeditated act to silence him before he could reveal more information.
Ncengwa is on trial alongside three co-accused—Mlungisi Ncalane, Sibonelo Myeza, and Mbulelo Mpofana—who have all pleaded not guilty. They face charges of murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit murder.
The case has drawn attention to the persistent issue of political assassinations in KwaZulu-Natal. Civil society groups and analysts are watching closely to see if the investigation will lead to the prosecution of those who allegedly ordered the killing, not just the triggerman.
The ANC has not yet issued a formal statement on the new allegations. The ongoing trial is expected to reveal more details about the conspiracy behind the murder of Magaqa, who had been a rising political figure.