MK Party regional organiser shot dead in KZN ahead of elections

The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has confirmed the killing of its regional organiser in KwaZulu-Natal, Lastborn Shazi.

Shazi was reportedly shot dead at his residence in Umzumbe on Monday night, 2 November. His death comes just a day before the highly-anticipated local government elections on Wednesday, 4 November.

MK PARTY ORGANISER KILLED IN KWAZULU-NATAL

MK Party spokesperson in KwaZulu-Natal, Mkhuseli Mlengane, said Lastborn Shazi’s death was a devastating blow to the organisation, his family, friends and the communities he served.

Mlengane said the party was calling on the KwaZulu-Natal Political Killings Task Team to investigate Shazi’s murder and the circumstances surrounding it.

He also called for the identification and prosecution of the perpetrator and anyone found to have been involved in planning or facilitating the killing.

“KwaZulu-Natal has a painful history of political killings. The continued loss of lives through violence is a serious concern that demands decisive action from law enforcement authorities. No individuals should lose their life because of their political involvement or organisational responsibilities,” Mlengane said.

BREAKING NEWS | The MK Party is mourning the killing of its regional organiser, Lastborn Shazi, who was shot and killed in Umzumbe, KwaZulu-Natal, last night. The party's provincial spokesperson, Mkhuseli Mlengane says there are currently no leads in the case. pic.twitter.com/AeQfuw6y9D

— SABC News (@SABCNews) November 3, 2026

MEMBERS URGED TO REMAIN CALM

The MK Party has urged its members, supporters and structures to remain calm, exercise restraint and allow law enforcement agencies to conduct their investigations.

“Members are urged not to engage in speculation, spread unverified information or make allegations that could compromise the investigation and inflame tensions. We must allow the truth to emerge through a proper investigative process and ensure that justice takes its course,” Mlengane said.

The party said it would communicate details of the memorial service and funeral arrangements after consulting with Shazi’s family.