Former DA councillor sentenced to life for murdering family in Bethany fire

The Ladysmith Regional Court has sentenced Michael Buthelezi (48) to life imprisonment for four counts of murder, along with convictions for arson and defeating the ends of justice.

The convictions stem from incidents in October 2023 in the Bethany area of Bergville, KZN.

Buthelezi, a councillor for the Democratic Alliance (DA) at the time, was living with his fiancée, Khombosile Khoza, and their three young children in a two-roomed house.

On 29 October 2023, at around 2am, a fire broke out in their home. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the family was trapped until a witness arrived and kicked down the door.

Khoza and two of the children, aged two and eight, died in the fire. Buthelezi and their 10-year-old daughter managed to escape, but the child later died in hospital after being placed on palliative care. Buthelezi was placed under observation and treated for his injuries.

False statements and threats

NPA regional spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson-Kara said Buthelezi misled police by providing false statements about the incident on two occasions.

Investigations revealed his statements were untrue, leading to his arrest.

The prosecution, led by Shika Siverpersad, presented evidence from 11 witnesses, including first responders, medical personnel, and a relative.

The relative testified that Buthelezi and Khoza had a tumultuous relationship and that Buthelezi had threatened to kill Khoza by setting her on fire just two weeks before the incident.

Siverpersad also presented a victim impact statement written by Khoza’s father and facilitated by court preparation officer Khulekani Mthembu.

The statement described the trauma experienced by the family and the lasting impact on the father’s health.

Sentencing and NPA’s response

Buthelezi was sentenced to life imprisonment for each of the four murder charges, five years for arson, and five years each for two counts of defeating the ends of justice. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

“The NPA welcomes the successful finalisation of this matter as it underscores our unwavering commitment to ensuring justice for victims of gender-based violence and serious crimes,” said Ramkisson-Kara.

“We commend the prosecution team and law enforcement for their relentless pursuit of justice, and we hope this outcome brings some comfort and closure to the families of the victims.”

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