Shock and disbelief are the only two words that accurately describe the mood in eMalahleni this morning after the news broke that the executive mayor Cllr Linah Malatjie and her husband Mr Esau Malatjie died in a tragic car accident last night.

The accident happened around 22:30 when their car collided head-on with a Ford Ranger bakkie.

They were on their way back to eMalahleni from KwaMhlanga.

The premier of Mpumalanga, Ms Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane will be visiting the Malatjie family later this morning.

The African National Congress Nkangala Region in a press release said: “With her incisive mind, sharp wit, and easy humour, Cllr Malatjie’s passing leaves a huge void in the ANC and government.”

Cllr Malatjie served in various capacities in the ANC’s structures.

“She belonged to a generation of the post-apartheid activists who gave impetus to our struggle beyond the unbanning. She was a vociferous opponent of gender inequality and discrimination, throughout her activism Cllr Malatjie was in the forefront of the struggle towards the advancement of women emancipation and empowerment.”

In the corridors of the local municipality, everyone is struggling to come to terms with the shocking news.

Cllr Malatjie was fondly referred to by many as Ma-Linah – a mother figure to many, a role she fulfilled with love and dignity.

The municipal manager, Mr Sizwe Mayisela was overcome with emotions and found it hard to speak to the media. He has promised to prepare a statement later today.