Julius Malema has reignited discussion regarding the murder investigation of Kiernan Forbes, suggesting that primary suspects may already be incarcerated.
During a segment on Radio 702, Malema indicated that KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi supposedly confided in him during a confidential conversation.
This meeting occurred soon after Malema publicly voiced his concerns about the investigation’s sluggishness while addressing a rally in KZN.
“I went to a rally in KZN, and I criticised him about AKA’s murder,” Malema stated. “I said, ‘Mkhwanazi, our favourite provincial commissioner. I love him so much. But I’m beginning to have doubts because he’s not making a move on AKA’s case.’”
The leader of the EFF characterized the incident as a national embarrassment, highlighting how a prominent figure was shot “in front of a camera” while justice seems to be delayed.
His statements, he contended, led to a follow-up from the commissioner, who sought the meeting via an intermediary.
“The sensitive Mkhwanazi didn’t take that criticism. He called Khan and asked for a meeting with me,” Malema elaborated.
“Khan called me and said, ‘There’s this guy who is asking to see you.’ Mkhwanazi accompanied by Khan then provided me with an overview of AKA’s case.”
Following this, Malema noted a shocking revelation.
“He said the guys are arrested, but they are not arrested because of AKA’s case; they are arrested because of something else,” he asserted.
“Just at the tail end of finishing the evidence on AKA’s matter, then I’m going to charge them with AKA’s matter. But I would not reveal it because if I reveal it, Bheki Cele is going to tamper with this evidence and mess up this case.”
The assertions indicate a significant level of distrust within the police force, with Malema suggesting that internal meddling could jeopardize the investigation if information is disclosed prematurely.
The shooting of AKA and his associate Tebogo “TBG” Ndlovu in Durban in February 2023 shocked the nation.
The brazen act, recorded on CCTV outside a well-known restaurant, intensified public scrutiny of law enforcement and raised concerns about the country’s capacity to address high-profile crimes.
Although multiple arrests have occurred in connection with the wider investigation, no individual has yet been formally charged in court regarding AKA’s murder, leaving many citizens dissatisfied with the apparent lack of progress.
Malema acknowledged that he previously held Mkhwanazi in high esteem but is now experiencing growing frustration.
“I love him so much,” he remarked, with a hint of sarcasm. “But I’m beginning to have doubts.”
