A tragic roadside accident has claimed the life a prominent political figure in KZN, sparking an outpouring of grief across the province’s political divide.

Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba, a sitting MPL and influential ANC provincial strategist, died yesterday morning (July 4) after a vehicle struck him during his daily exercise routine in Newcastle, reports The Witness.

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

ANC mourns a foundational pillar

In a statement issued yesterday, the ANC in KZN 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.”

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.

Opposition parties pay tribute

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

The DA Amajuba constituency head, Dr Imran Keeka, conveyed the constituency’s condolences to the Mahlaba family. Keeka said that during his engagements with Mahlaba – both while he (Mahlaba) was mayor of the Newcastle Municipality during the previous municipal term and, more recently, as chairperson of committees in the KZN Legislature – he was always 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.

ActionSA 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.

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

Police investigation underway

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

Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma said his department will allow the police to handle the investigation into Mahlaba’s accident as per normal procedure. He confirmed the Road Traffic Inspectorate had informed him Mahlaba was struck by a car in Allen Street in Newcastle.

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