KEY POINTS
- A State witness testified that RDP houses were illegally sold in Cato Crest.
- Siyabonga Mkhize was allegedly killed for exposing the housing corruption.
- The trial continues as two witnesses testify under protection.
The Durban High Court has been hearing evidence about the alleged illegal sale of RDP houses in Ward 101, Cato Crest.
A protected State witness testified that during the 2021 local elections, many community members complained about the corruption in housing allocations to Siyabonga Mkhize, an ANC ward candidate.
Mkhize, known for vowing to fight corruption in the housing system, was murdered on October 15, 2021, alongside his colleague Mzukisi Nyanga. The two were shot while sitting in a Nissan Navara in Cato Crest.
The State alleges that five individuals—including former Ward 101 councillor Mzimuni Ngiba—conspired to kill Mkhize because they did not want him to expose fraudulent RDP house sales.
Witness testifies on Mkhize’s anti-corruption stand
According to the witness, Mkhize had promised to ensure fairness in RDP housing allocations if elected. Many residents, she said, discovered that their rightful homes had been sold to other people.
Also, the court heard that Ngiba had served as the ward councillor for 12 years. During that time, many residents accused him of facilitating illegal house sales.
Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Lawrence Gcaba questioned the witness. The witness stated that the corruption had personally affected her family, especially her late father.
However, defense attorney Andrew Matlamela argued that some of her testimony was hearsay.
Furthermore, Ngiba’s defense insists that he never engaged in RDP house sales and that service delivery improved under his leadership. Matlamela added that Ngiba was popular enough to win re-election after Mkhize’s death.
Mkhize’s murder trial continues amid security concerns
Two witnesses are testifying in-camera after identifying the alleged shooters of Mkhize and Nyanga. Also, the State requested their anonymity, citing concerns for their safety.
According to IOL, the trial, which has gripped the Durban community, is set to continue next week.
As investigations continue into the alleged RDP housing scam and political assassination, the case has exposed serious issues. It has raised critical questions about corruption and violence in local government.
