Add as a preferred source on Google

The ANC in KwaZulu-Natal is mourning the untimely death of former KwaZulu-Natal Public Works and Human Settlements MEC and ANC Provincial Task Team (PTT) member Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba.

Mahlaba died after he was struck by a vehicle while out on his morning jog on Saturday. He was taken to hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

ALSO READ | Newcastle mayor calls for killings of women and children to be declared as crimes against humanity

At the time of his death, Mahlaba was serving as a member of the ANC Provincial Task Team, a Member of the Provincial Legislature (MPL), and chairperson of committees in the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature.

He previously served as Mayor of Newcastle Local Municipality and as MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture, before later serving as MEC for Public Works and Human Settlements.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal expressed shock at Mahlaba’s sudden death and conveyed its condolences to his family, friends and fellow comrades.

“The news of his sudden departure has cast a dark, painful and impenetrable cloud over the entire province and the broader liberation movement,” the party said.

We are frozen in disbelief that a life so full of vigour, promise and revolutionary commitment could be extinguished so abruptly at the dawn of the morning.

ALSO READ | ANC’s Mahlaba elected unopposed in Newcastle

The ANC described Mahlaba as a foundational pillar of the provincial leadership, the long-serving chairperson of the ANC in the Mbuso Kubheka Region (formerly Emalahleni), and a former chairperson of the ANC Youth League.

“Death has robbed us of a revolutionary doctor and a disciplined cadre who commanded the respect of friends and political foes alike,” the statement read.

“As a medical doctor by profession, he chose to heal both the physical bodies of our people in public hospitals and the socioeconomic wounds of his community through the radical programmes of the ANC.”

The party extended its condolences to Mahlaba’s wife, Dr Busi Mahlaba, their children, and the entire Mahlaba family.

Political parties and government departments in KZN have also sent their condolences to the Mahlaba family.

ALSO READ | Inkosi Zuma to hear bail decision on DA councillor murder case

The DA Amajuba constituency head, Dr Imran Keeka conveyed his conveyed the constituency’s condolences to the Mahlaba family.

Keeka said during his engagement with Mahlaba while he (Mahlabe) was mayor of the Newcastle Municipality during the previous municipal term and, more recently, as chairperson of Committees in the KZN Legislature, he was professional.

“Our engagements with him, even when we did not always share the same views, were always conducted with mutual respect, cordiality and professionalism. He will be remembered as an approachable, humble and caring leader who served the people with commitment.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all who mourn his passing. We sincerely hope that his family, friends, colleagues and all those who knew him will draw strength, comfort and solace from their faith during this profoundly difficult time,” said Keeka in a statement.

Action SA Provincial chairperson Zwakele Mncwango said while political parties may differ on matters of policy and ideology, moments such as these remind us of our shared humanity.

ALSO READ | Family of murdered man deny drug links, ward councillor warns against vigilantism

“Mr Mahlaba was not only a political leader from an opposing party, but also a personal friend. His passing is deeply saddening,” said Mncwango.

KZN Public Works and Infrastructure MEC Martin Meyer also sent his condolences to the Mahlaba family, friend and colleagues.

Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma said his department will allow the police to handle Mahlaba’s accident as per the normal procedure.

He said the Road Traffic Inspectorate informed him Mahlaba was struck by a car in Allen Street in Newcastle.