Tony Forbes, father of the late South African rap icon AKA, has expressed strong outrage after graphic footage of his son’s killing was aired during proceedings of the Madlanga Commission.
In a formal complaint, Forbes described the decision as “careless” and “insensitive,” stating that it forced his family — and the public — to relive a deeply traumatic moment.
“I cannot understand how the commissioners… would just carelessly display that footage,” he said, suggesting that a still image could have been used instead.
The footage was played during testimony by a police witness as part of discussions around how the video of the 2023 assassination was circulated.
The father of slain South African rap star Kiernan “AKA” Forbes has slammed the Madlanga Commission for airing footage of his son’s killing. The Commission showed footage depicting the murder of AKA last Friday during the testimony of Sergeant Fannie Nkosi. #eNCA #DStv403 pic.twitter.com/BpdfAnFVdT
— eNCA (@eNCA) March 24, 2026
While the commission is investigating alleged corruption and criminal influence within South Africa’s justice system, Forbes argued that airing the video crossed a personal line and was unnecessary to the case.
AKA, born Kiernan Forbes, was shot and killed alongside his friend Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane outside a Durban restaurant in February 2023. Several suspects linked to the case are expected to face trial later this year.
Despite the ongoing pursuit of justice, Forbes maintains that the handling of the footage showed little regard for the emotional impact on the family.
