In a statement issued by ANC Gauteng, the party stated it is saddened by the sudden death of Councillor Nonhlanhla Mthembu, fondly known as “Black Diamond” and “Stompi”.

She collapsed during the City of Joburg’s inaugural council meeting held earlier today to elect Johannesburg Mayor, Speaker and Chief Whip – following the 2016 Local Government Elections held earlier this month.

“Clr Mthembu who recently celebrated her 50th birthday was an activist at heart, and a longstanding member of the ANC,” the ANC stated.

“She had devoted her life to serving her community.”

She was a Johannesburg councillor in the 2011 – 2016 term of office, and was re-elected to serve for another five years.

The cause of her death is not yet known.