KZN Sport Mourns The Tragic Passing Of Mahlaba
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has expressed deep shock and sadness following the sudden passing of its former MEC, Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba, who tragically died in a car accident.
Mahlaba, who previously served the province as both the MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture and the MEC for Human Settlements, was serving as the Chair of Chairs in the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature at the time of his death.
Current Sport MEC, Honourable Mntomuhle Khawula, described his predecessor as a dedicated, calm, and deeply respectful leader whose political astuteness guided the legislature through complex provincial issues.
How did MEC Mntomuhle Khawula pay tribute to Dr Mahlaba?
MEC Khawula reflected warmly on the seamless transition and handover process he experienced when taking over the portfolio, praising Mahlaba’s exceptional political maturity and professionalism.
“Dr Mahlaba was not just a colleague in the provincial legislature, but a political peer who never shied away from ventilating his views and convictions,” Khawula stated. “What stood out is that, even when arguing a point, he registered his views with the highest level of political maturity and respect.”
Beyond his provincial executive roles, Mahlaba was a prominent leader within his political home, the African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal. As news of the fatal accident spread, tributes poured in from political colleagues, sports federations, and community leaders across the province, all honoring his extensive legacy of public service.
“On behalf of the entire Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, we send our deepest condolences to the Mahlaba family, his colleagues in the ANC, his friends, and everyone whose life he touched,” Khawula concluded. “May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his loved ones find comfort during this difficult period.”
