Caption: Residents and ANC supporters gathered outside the Piet Retief
By Kopano Dibakwane
Scores of ANC(African National Congress) members and local residents gathered outside the Piet Retief Magistrate’s Court on Thursday 10 July 2025, during the appearance of three suspects who are allegedly linked to the murder of 40-year-old Mkhondo Municipality PR Councillor, and former Gert Sibande ANC Regional Deputy Chairperson, Muzi Manyathi.
The three suspects, aged between 32 and 36, were reportedly arrested while in custody for a separate matter.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, said Manyathi was fatally shot at a filling station in Piet Retief(Gert Sibande Region) at around 18h30 in the evening of Friday 4 November 2022.
According to Brigadier Mdhluli, the suspects were reportedly spotted at the said filling station in a Mercedes Benz with Gauteng registration numbers. They reportedly waited outside for Manyathi who was buying some items at the filling station kiosk.
“ It is said that one male suspect came out of the said vehicle, armed with a firearm, and shot the victim multiple times at close range. The suspects then fled the scene using the said vehicle,” Brigadier Mdhluli said.
The Mercedes Benz was reportedly found abandoned next to a dam, and investigations revealed that the number plates were not authentic. The vehicle was allegedly reported stolen in Brakpan, Gauteng Province, in April 2022.
The MEC for DPWRT(Public Works Roads and Transport) in Mpumalanga, Thulasizwe Thomo, in his capacity as an ANC member, stood alongside Manyathi’s family as well as the ANC Gert Sibande Regional Task Team, and other party members who were gathered outside the court building. He posted a message on his social media platform to welcome the arrest of the suspects, which reportedly came three years since Manyathi’s death.
“ We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the SAPS(South African Police Service) for their commitment, diligence, and continued pursuit of justice in this case. Their efforts bring renewed hope to Comrade Manyathi’s family, comrades, and the broader movement who continue to seek truth and closure from this case,” said Thomo.
Mpumalanga Acting Provincial Police Commissioner, Major-General(Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, applauded the investiagtion team for their exceptional skills and commitment to serve. He also said he trusts that the suspects will be convicted and given a harsher sentence.
“ We made a vow that we will not rest until the perpetrators are brought to book and justice for the victim’s family, and we have delivered,” said Major-General Mkhwanazi.
