Former Colleagues Reveal Workplace Abuse Before Ayabonga Mjilo’s Tragic Death
Former Colleagues Reveal Workplace Abuse Before Ayabonga Mjilo’s Tragic Death
Ayabonga Gcino Mjilo’s former colleagues have come forward, shedding light on the alleged abuse she endured at the hands of her ex-manager, Mfanafuthi Kunene, who is currently facing charges for her murder.
The young woman’s tragic story has revealed a chilling pattern of harassment and mistreatment that was ignored until it was too late.
Ayabonga, 23, reportedly resigned from her position after facing relentless mistreatment under Kunene’s management. According to her colleagues, she was not the only one to suffer—others also reported experiencing his abusive behavior, but their complaints were ignored by HR. With no recourse, many were forced to quit their jobs to escape the toxic environment.
Despite resigning and securing a new position elsewhere, Ayabonga remained in contact with her former colleagues. In December, she attended an informal year-end lunch with them, where she encountered Kunene again. He insisted that she stay longer, promising to arrange an Uber to take her home. Tragically, that was the last time her friends saw her alive.
A False Narrative to Hide the Truth
When Ayabonga was reported missing, her former colleagues confronted Kunene. He claimed that she had left the gathering with a “Nigerian man.” However, it was later revealed that Kunene had gone to great lengths to fabricate this story.
He even created a fake social media account posing as a Nigerian man to bolster his claims. This false narrative not only deflected attention but also played into harmful stereotypes, raising questions about the broader use of such tactics to perpetuate hate and falsehoods.
Kunene’s lies unraveled as police investigations intensified. Days after Ayabonga’s disappearance, Kunene took time off work, claiming he was making renovations to his home. It was at his property in Amaotana, Inanda, where authorities eventually discovered Ayabonga’s body buried in a shallow grave.
Justice for Ayabonga
This horrific case has sparked outrage across South Africa, with many calling for justice and action against gender-based violence. Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli commended the police for their swift response and emphasized the importance of harsh punishment for such heinous crimes.
“This is Ayabonga Gcino Mjilo, murdered by a South African named Kunene. He quickly created a fake story about seeing her going home with a Nigerian man. He even created a fake Nigerian account until he was caught! How many more such stories have been created to suit hateful narratives?” read one social media post that has since gone viral.
The case has highlighted the urgent need for workplace reforms, better protection for employees, and stronger action against gender-based violence. It is also a reminder of the devastating impact of unchecked abuse and the lengths some will go to cover up their crimes.
Kunene is facing charges of kidnapping, murder, and defeating the ends of justice. His case has been postponed to 26 February 2025 as investigations continue. Meanwhile, Ayabonga’s family and friends are left mourning a young life cut short, while the nation demands accountability and change.
