Deputy Minister Kenny Morolong Engages with Families of Missing Couple in Mpumalanga
Johannesburg – The Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, recently visited the families of the missing journalist Sibusiso “Aserie” Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Mdhluli in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga.
Ndlovu, founder of Capital Live FM, and his partner have been reported missing since February 18, 2025.
During his visit on Sunday, May 4, 2025, Deputy Minister Morolong shared, “We are heartened by the reports coming in.”
This visit came in response to concerns raised just a day prior about the slow progress of the investigation into the couple’s disappearance.
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“At times, inadequate communication can impede police efforts, but we urge you to offer updates, even at a high level, to reassure the families,” Deputy Minister Morolong remarked.
“It is vital for our brother and sister to be found safe.”
Morolong stressed that ongoing communication from the police could help foster public trust, especially in complex cases like this.
Thembisile Hani District Municipality Mayor Jacob Dikgale noted that police reports indicate significant progress has been achieved.
“We believe this will aid in restoring public confidence in the police,” the mayor stated.
“We can only hope for improved momentum and communication moving forward.”
Meanwhile, the African Media and Communicators Forum, alongside the National Press Club, has welcomed the latest developments.
Both organizations expressed gratitude for the intervention by South African Police Service National Commissioner General Fanie Masemola, who has mandated the creation of a dedicated team to prioritize the investigation.
An inter-provincial task force, including investigators from Gauteng and Mpumalanga, will work to consolidate and expedite the inquiry into the couple’s disappearance, which occurred 75 days ago.
Earlier that day, Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi convened a team to brief Deputy Minister Morolong on the progress of the investigation.
Joining Mayor Dikgale and Deputy Minister, Elijah Mhlanga, Chairperson of the African Media and Communicators Forum, remarked: “We have received a confidential report indicating that substantial progress has been made.”
“We believe a breakthrough is imminent.”
“To enhance the investigation, we have increased the reward from R50,000 to R100,000.”
“With a communication line now established among all parties, we look forward to a breakthrough in this case.”
“We are glad that both the Ndlovu and Mdhluli families have also been briefed and are content with the progress made thus far.”
Antoinette Slabbert, Chairperson of the National Press Club, commented: “We appreciate the swift response to our letter from the national police commissioner, in which we sought his assistance.”
“We are also encouraged by the interest shown by the premiers of Gauteng and Mpumalanga.”
The African Media and Communicators Forum and the National Press Club once again urged the public to stay vigilant for the missing couple and to contribute to the search, encouraging anyone with information to contact the police immediately.
If you have any leads or information, please contact Brigadier Nama at 082 778 9035 or Brigadier Cele at 082 443 7373.
*All images: GCIS