Rand West City pays tribute to slain IFP councillor
Family, colleagues and community members gathered at the Rand West City Council Chambers to honour the life of IFP councillor Mbuso Mzwandile Mthimkhulu and call for justice following his tragic death.
A solemn memorial service was held on June 3 at the Rand West City Local Municipality Council Chambers in honour of Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) councillor Mbuso Mzwandile Mthimkhulu, who was tragically killed last week.
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Colleagues, community members, political leaders and family representatives gathered to pay tribute to Mthimkhulu’s life and legacy, remembering him as a dedicated public servant committed to the people of Bekkersdal.
The chamber was filled with emotion as speakers reflected on his contributions to local governance and his unwavering passion for improving residents’ lives. Fellow councillors described him as a principled leader who worked tirelessly to address service delivery challenges and uplift his community.
ANC chief whip Mkhuseli Jokazi described the late Mthimkhulu as a “giant of a man”, not only in stature but also in the work he did for his community. Jokazi added that, despite political differences, Mthimkhulu worked well with everyone for the betterment of the public.
Most of the Mthimkhulu family were absent from the memorial, with Jokazi stating that the family is still living in fear.
This is the second loss in a short period for the Mthimkhulu family, as Mbuso’s younger brother was also murdered earlier this year,” said Jokazi.
Other council members also shared messages of condolence and support for the family, acknowledging the profound loss they have suffered.
Executive Mayor of Rand West City Local Municipality William Matsheke said, “Mthimkhulu was a man of discipline and humility. He carried a deep love for the people he served and championed the needs of communities.”
Matsheke also appealed to councillors to treat one another with love and respect across party lines, saying this was something the late councillor practised.
The memorial service served as both a tribute to Mthimkhulu’s life and a call for unity in the face of violence. Speakers called for justice and emphasised the importance of working together to build safer communities.
Mthimkhulu will be remembered for his dedication, leadership and the impact he made during his time in office.
His funeral will take place tomorrow, June 7, in Ulundi, KZN.
