Former Newcastle Mayor Ntuthuko Mahlaba Dies After Being Hit By Car While Jogging

Former Newcastle mayor and ANC leader Ntuthuko Mahlaba has died after being struck by a vehicle while jogging in Newcastle on Saturday.

His death has sparked an outpouring of condolences from political parties and leaders across KwaZulu-Natal, who have described him as a committed public servant whose contribution to the province will be remembered.

Ntuthuko Mahlaba Remembered As Dedicated ANC Leader

The Ntuthuko Mahlaba death was confirmed by the African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal, which described him as a dedicated leader who served the province with distinction.

Mahlaba previously served as mayor of Newcastle and held positions as KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, as well as Public Works and Human Settlements.

At the time of his passing, he was serving as a member of the ANC Provincial Task Team and as a Member of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, where he chaired legislative committees.

ANC provincial spokesperson Sifiso Sonjica paid tribute to Mahlaba, describing his death as a significant loss to the organisation.

“ We are sending our deepest condolences to the family of comrade Mahlaba, and we do ask that the family is given space to process and deal with this sudden passing of our comrade and the leadership of the ANC will meet to process and plan to visit the family.”

Tributes Pour In Following Ntuthuko Mahlaba’s Death

The Ntuthuko Mahlaba tragedy has prompted tributes from across the political spectrum. Speaker of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature Nontembeko Boyce described him as a respected leader whose career spanned local and provincial government, as well as the health sector.

Boyce said Mahlaba had served as an ANC Member of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature since August 2022 and was a member of the Legislature’s Strategic Leadership Committee at the time of his death.

She described his passing as a major loss to the Legislature, the ANC and the people of KwaZulu-Natal, praising his humility and unwavering commitment to public service.

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The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) also honoured Mahlaba, saying his life was defined by service, compassion and a commitment to improving the lives of others.

Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) in KwaZulu-Natal extended its condolences to his family and the ANC, expressing hope that they would find strength through faith, prayer and unity.

KZN Leaders Honour Ntuthuko Mahlaba’s Legacy

The Ntuthuko Mahlaba legacy was also recognised by KwaZulu-Natal Public Works MEC Martin Meyer, who offered his condolences to Mahlaba’s family, friends and colleagues.

Speaking on Meyer’s behalf, KwaZulu-Natal Public Works spokesperson Steve Bhengu reflected on Mahlaba’s personal qualities and leadership style.

“His character will always be defined by his pursuit of ongoing self-improvement and growth. To MEC Meyer, Dr. Mahlaba will be remembered as someone who often spoke less but listened more, something that is a rare quality. But when he spoke, it reflected his deeper analysis, which was often invaluable.”