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Parliament, Sunday, 01 June 2025 - Parliament's Presiding Officers, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Ms Thoko Didiza, and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Ms Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane — have expressed profound shock and sadness at the tragic and senseless killing of Honourable Khethamabala Petros "KP" Sithole, a dedicated Member of Parliament representing the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) and serving as the party’s Deputy Chief Whip in the National Assembly.
Honourable Sithole was a seasoned and principled public servant whose life was defined by unwavering service to the people of South Africa. His distinguished political journey spanned all spheres of government — from his early days as a councillor in the Ekurhuleni Municipality to a Member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature and eventually as a National Assembly MP, a role he held with honour and commitment since 2010.
In Parliament, Hon. Sithole was more than a representative of his party — he was a unifying figure who contributed meaningfully to the work of the institution. As Deputy Chief Whip of the IFP, a key member of the Chief Whips Forum, and an active participant in the National Assembly Programme Committee, he played a pivotal role in shaping the legislative agenda, enhancing parliamentary oversight, and advancing the institution’s constitutional mandate. His efforts helped guide the adoption of transformative laws aimed at confronting the nation’s most pressing challenges — poverty, inequality, and unemployment.
Hon. Sithole was widely respected across party lines for his humility, calm demeanour, and deep institutional knowledge. He carried out his responsibilities with diligence, integrity, and a steadfast belief in democratic ideals and justice — qualities that left an indelible mark on the work and character of Parliament.
The Presiding Officers are appalled by this heinous act and strongly condemn the continuing violence that threatens the safety of citizens. They urge law enforcement authorities to act swiftly and decisively to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and that public confidence in the rule of law is upheld.
Parliament extends its deepest condolences to the Sithole family, the leadership and members of the IFP, his colleagues in Parliament, and all who were privileged to know and work alongside this remarkable servant of the people. South Africa has lost a principled leader, a patriot, and a champion for justice and transformation.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
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