In a shocking and tragic case that has gripped the nation, former Democratic Alliance (DA) PR Councillor Michael Buthelezi has been sentenced to four life terms in prison by the Ladysmith Regional Court. The sentencing was handed down on Friday, 30 May 2025, following his conviction for the brutal murders of his partner and their three young children in Bergville, KwaZulu-Natal.
Buthelezi was found guilty of intentionally setting fire to a two-roomed house in which his family was sleeping in October 2023. The victims were identified as Khombisile Nyoka (41), his 12-year-old daughter Lubanzi Buthelezi, 9-year-old son Zigizemdoda Buthelezi, and his youngest child, 2-year-old daughter Sibingele Buthelezi.
The court heard that Buthelezi deliberately set the house ablaze while his family slept inside, causing their deaths by fire. Shockingly, he survived the inferno with only minor burn injuries. In the aftermath, he initially claimed the attack was a result of his outspoken stance against political corruption. He alleged he was targeted due to his anti-corruption efforts and portrayed himself as a victim of a politically motivated assault.
However, this narrative quickly unraveled. The Political Killings Task Team, a specialized unit responsible for investigating politically linked crimes, took over the case. Under intense scrutiny and investigation, Buthelezi later changed his story, accusing his partner’s ex-boyfriend of hurling a petrol bomb into the house.
Despite his shifting explanations, police investigations exposed the truth. Forensic evidence and witness testimonies confirmed that Buthelezi acted alone in the planning and execution of the murders. The court found the evidence against him to be overwhelming and unequivocal, leading to the imposition of the maximum penalty.
In addition to the four life sentences for the murders, Buthelezi received a further 15-year prison term for two additional charges: defeating the ends of justice and arson.
Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the Provincial Commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal, praised the thoroughness and professionalism of the investigative team. “It takes dedication and attention to detail to detect falsehoods in complex cases like this,” he said. “Our investigators did an exceptional job in piecing together the facts and presenting solid evidence in court. Sentences like these are a testament to the quality of police work and our commitment to justice.”
This case, while now legally concluded, leaves behind a deeply unsettling reminder of the fragility of human life and the devastating impact of domestic violence. The community of Bergville continues to mourn the loss of Khombisile Nyoka and her three innocent children, whose lives were cruelly taken by someone they should have been able to trust.
As the nation reflects on this harrowing tragedy, the justice system’s response sends a strong message: such heinous crimes will be met with the full weight of the law.