JOHANNESBURG - Former Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane, who is now a leader of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party in Mpumalanga, believes her life is in danger.
Mkhwebane, who became a leader of the MK Party after several court battles with a former leader and party representative in the provincial legislature, Mary Phadi, has confirmed to The Citizen that she has opened a case in connection with the assassination plot reportedly made by senior party member Abednego Mkhatshwa.
Recently, there has been a voce note circulating on social media in which a man, believed to be Mkhatshwa, is talking about how he hates Mkhwebane and wanted to assassinate her.
“I have opened a case with SAPS on October 11, 2025, waiting for the case number,” said Mkhwebane.
The former public protector said such a threat could not be taken lightly, as political killings were prevalent in South Africa.
“He regards me as his competitor, and he failed to do his work as the secretary of the party in the province,” said Mkhwebane. Sources say Mkhatshwa has ambitions to take over the leadership of the party in the province.
The MK Party in the Nkgangala region, the structure that Mkhatshwa and Mkhwebane belong to, has released a statement condemning the threat. It added that it was dangerous and could lead to a situation in which other people can mobilise and harm Mkhwebane.
“The comrade’s voice is heard clearly talking to other people about the intention to harm comrade Mkhwebane,” the statement read.
It has called on the authorities and relevant stakeholders to investigate the matter and discipline Mkhatshwa if he is found guilty.
“We are also demanding a written apology from Mkhatshwa.”
The punishment that should be given to such people must send a message to others planning to do the same thing in the future, the statement stated.
Mkhatshwa did not respond to WhatsApp messages, and his phone was off.
Political Analyst Ntsikelelo Breakfast said one of the things causing a fight in the MK Party was the fact that the party has never held an elective conference to appoint the leadership.
Former Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane. (Pic: The Citizen)