A wave of shock and grief has swept through the Free State political landscape following the tragic shooting of Democratic Alliance (DA) Councillor Michael Thulani Mbana.
The high-ranking political figure was shot dead at his home in Sasolburg on Monday night, 26 October 2026.
At the time of his death, Mbana served as the DA Caucus Leader for the Metsimaholo Local Municipality, marking a devastating loss for both his party and the local community.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched an immediate, high-priority investigation into the killing. Free State Provincial SAPS Commissioner, Lieutenant General Solly Lesia, confirmed shortly after the incident that a specialized team has been deployed to uncover the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Law enforcement officials are working swiftly to establish the motive behind the attack and bring the perpetrators to justice, though no suspects have been publicly identified at this stage.
Mbana’s political career with the DA began in 2017, during which he established himself as a dedicated political activist and a pillar of community service. He played an instrumental role in building the party’s grassroots structures and guiding them through various election campaigns and crucial by-elections.
Beyond his leadership as Caucus Leader, Mbana previously served as a councillor and as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Spatial Planning and Human Settlements during the DA’s tenure in the Metsimaholo local government.
The DA in the Free State released a statement expressing deep sadness over the loss of a man they described as a champion of his community and a dedicated public servant.
Party leadership emphasized his unwavering commitment to ensuring that the voices of Metsimaholo residents were always heard. As the community and political colleagues mourn, the DA extended heartfelt condolences to Mbana’s wife, family, and friends.
“The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Free State is deeply saddened by the tragic death of our Metsimaholo Caucus Leader, Michael Thulani Mbana, who lost his life in a shooting last night.
“His passing is a devastating loss to the DA and the community he served so tirelessly. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time.”
In a show of political solidarity during this difficult time, the DA also acknowledged and appreciated messages of support and condolences received from MEC Ketso Makhume on behalf of the African National Congress (ANC) and Jan van Niekerk of the Freedom Front Plus (FF+).
