The Pietermaritzburg High Court in KwaZulu-Natal has sentenced Sbusiso Ncengwa to 25 years in prison for the 2017 murder of former ANC Youth League Secretary-General Sindiso Magaqa.
Ncengwa, one of several individuals implicated in the high-profile killing, pleaded guilty to charges of murder, attempted murder, and malicious damage to property. He also submitted a detailed affidavit naming other alleged perpetrators involved in the plot.
A Guilty Plea and Damning Confession
Initially, Ncengwa had pleaded not guilty but changed his plea last month, admitting to his role in the crime. In his affidavit, he implicated others, including the alleged mastermind behind the assassination.
Delivering the sentence, Judge Nontuthuzelo Mlaba condemned Ncengwa for his “disregard for human life” in agreeing to carry out Magaqa’s murder.
Charges and Concurrent Sentencing
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Natasha Kara confirmed that Ncengwa’s guilty plea under Section 220 of the Criminal Procedure Act led to his conviction on multiple charges, including:
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Conspiracy to commit murder
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Murder
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Attempted murder
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Malicious injury to property
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Unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition
The sentences will run concurrently, resulting in an effective 25-year prison term.
Implications for Other Accused
Two other suspects are set to stand trial in October, while a fourth accused has been declared a state patient and is undergoing psychiatric evaluation.
Kara stated that Ncengwa’s confession will now be scrutinized as part of ongoing investigations into the remaining suspects. “The contents of his affidavit will be interrogated before any further action is taken,” she said.
Background on the Case
Sindiso Magaqa, a former Umzimkhulu councillor and outspoken ANCYL leader, was ambushed and shot in July 2017. He succumbed to his injuries months later. His killing was widely believed to be politically motivated, sparking outrage and calls for justice.
The sentencing marks a significant step in a case that has drawn national attention, but questions remain over whether all those responsible will be held accountable.
Next Steps:
The trial for the remaining accused is scheduled for October 2023 at the Pietermaritzburg High Court.
