THE fiance of a member of Izingane Zoma, who allegedly committed suicide, is still trying to come to terms with her death. Xolile Buthelezi (34), who joined the popular maskandi group in 2008, was found dead by her taxi boss fiance, S’bongiseni Hlatshwayo (38) at her flat in Joburg’s Doornfontein on Monday.
He told Daily Sun he found a 1litre container, with a label saying battery acid, next to her body.
“I don’t know what made her do this. We had an argument, but we sorted it out. We were happy and loved each other,” he said.
“I was living with her until three weeks ago, when I went to stay with my uncle. This was after I was almost shot by unknown people. I went into hiding because I suspected the incident was related to taxi violence.”
S’bongiseni said he last spoke to Xolile on Friday.
“I called her again on Saturday, Sunday and Monday, but I couldn’t reach her. I then went to her flat and had to break down the door, which was locked. When I got in, I found her body.”
S’bongiseni said he and Xolile had been together for six years and he paid lobola in 2013. Other maskandi singers were shocked to hear the news.
Phuzekhemisi said: “This is painful. I knew Xolile and we had a strong relationship with Izingane Zoma. I don’t know what to say. I’m shocked.”
Dumisile Manana-Mthalane of Imithente said she was on her way to the South African Music Awards rehearsals when she heard the news. “This is devastating. May her soul rest in peace.”
Zoma Ngcobo, spokesman for Izingane Zoma, said the group’s management was meeting Xolile’s family to make funeral arrangements.
