Ekurhuleni mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza denies allegations linking him to DJ Mfihlo murder

By Johnathan Paoli

City of Ekurhuleni mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza has hit back strongly at what he describes as “defamatory” media reporting linking him to the murder of popular DJ Bongani Mfihlo, saying the allegations amount to speculation that undermines due process and his leadership.

In a statement, Xhakaza said he had noted with “deep concern” a series of articles published by News24 that allege he was present at the Kempton Park nightclub where Mfihlo was shot and killed in September 2023, and that he later abused his authority to influence the police investigation.

The mayor rejected these claims, saying they were unsubstantiated and part of an effort to tarnish his reputation.

“The Executive Mayor views this report not as a pursuit of truth, but as the latest unsubstantiated attempt to delegitimise his leadership authority,” the statement said.

While affirming his respect for media freedom and freedom of expression, Xhakaza urged