SASOLBURG – The DA in the Free State is mourning Metsimaholo caucus leader Michael Thulani Mbana, who was shot dead execution-style in Sasolburg on Monday night. The targeted killing raises immediate fears of a political hit as South Africa experiences a massive surge in political violence.

In the run-up to the 2026 Local Government Elections, political killings have spiked dramatically across the country, with the tally now standing at almost 50 murders. The crisis has raised alarm bells about the safety of political activists and candidates.

Gunmen call victim outside before shooting

Police in Free State reported that Mbana was fatally shot at about 21:40 at his residence in Taylor Park, Zamdela by two unknown males who called him outside. Officers have launched a manhunt for the two armed men, who remain on the run.

Provincial Police Commissioner Lt Gen Solly Lesia announced that a team made up of the Zamdela Trio Task Team and Serious Organised Crime Unit has been assigned to investigate and bring the killers to book. The probe aims to establish the motive and circumstances surrounding the murder.

Party leader expresses shock

Roy Jankielsohn, DA provincial leader, expressed shock at Mbana’s brazen murder and extended heartfelt condolences to his wife, family, friends and colleagues. He said Lesia informed party members that an investigative team was tasked shortly after Mbana’s fatal shooting.

“The DA in the Free State is deeply saddened by the tragic death of our Metsimaholo Caucus Leader, Mbana. His passing is a devastating loss to the DA and the community he served so tirelessly,” said Jankielsohn.

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Dedicated public servant remembered

Mbana played a significant role since joining the DA in 2017. He dedicated himself to political activism, community service and building the party’s grassroots structures. As Caucus Leader, he worked through election campaigns and by-elections. He worked as a councillor and Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Spatial Planning and Human Settlements while the DA was in government in Metsimaholo.

“He remained committed to representing the people of Metsimaholo and ensuring their voices were heard. Thulani will be remembered as a dedicated public servant and a champion of his community,” said Jankielsohn.

Brigadier Thandi Mbambo, provincial spokesperson for the police, said the two men called Mbana and he approached one of them. The suspect produced a firearm and shot him several times at close range. Mbana sustained multiple gunshot wounds and died at the scene.

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