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ANC Gauteng Provincial Spokesperson Mzikayifane “Mzi” Khumalo has passed away at the age of 54.
His contributions to the ANC and the community in Gauteng were significant, marking him as a notable figure in local politics.
Mzi has been a key political figure in the province, initially serving as Speaker and then as the first executive mayor of Rand West City from 2016. He joined the Gauteng provincial legislature in 2019, serving as chief whip of the ANC until October 2022.
He subsequently became the Gauteng provincial MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, e-Government, and Research and Development, marking a significant career in local government, the Legislature, and the ANC.
On Monday, the African National Congress released a statement confirming the death of a veteran communicator, who passed away in the hospital after a short illness.
The organisation characterised his death not only as a significant loss to their ranks but also to the broader movement, underscoring the impact he had throughout his career and contributions to the cause.
Nonceba Mhlauli, the acting national spokesperson, expressed that his passing is a significant loss for his family, the African National Congress, and the people of Gauteng, highlighting his long-term service in various capacities.
“Comrade Mzi’s political activism was rooted in the Congress of South African Students in Mohlakeng.
“From these formative years of student activism, he went on to serve the movement and the people of Gauteng in local government, the provincial legislature and the provincial executive.
“Throughout these responsibilities, Comrade Mzi remained closely connected to the communities from which he emerged. His political life reflected a sustained commitment to the ANC and to the institutions of democratic local and provincial government.”
The announcement of his death has stirred reactions of grief and condolences from colleagues, political leaders, and community members who recognised his efforts and dedication to public service.
Tributes paid to Mzi
IFP Gauteng chairperson Bonginkosi Dhlamini expressed condolences, stating that the passing of the individual is a significant loss for his family, political comrades, and the Gauteng community.
He highlighted the individual’s long dedication to public service and political endeavours, noting the lasting impact on the province and its people.
“The IFP Gauteng extends its heartfelt condolences to the Khumalo family, his friends, comrades, and colleagues, the ANC Gauteng leadership and membership, and the community of Mohlakeng, which knew him as one of its own.
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“Mohlakeng, the Khumalo family and the wider ANC family are poorer without him. We hope that the Khumalo family will find strength in the memories of Mzi’s life and take comfort in knowing that his contribution to the public life of Gauteng will be remembered.
“Mzi’s voice may have fallen silent, but his contribution to the political and public life of Gauteng will not be forgotten,” he remarked.
“The Gauteng Provincial Legislature has learnt with profound sadness of the untimely passing of Hon. Mzikayifane ‘Mzi’ Elias Khumalo, Member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA),” the GPL tweeted.
City of Tshwane deputy executive mayor Eugene Modise wrote, “On behalf of the City of Tshwane, I join the people of Gauteng in mourning the passing of Mzikayifane “Mzi” Khumalo.
“I extend my condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time … his contribution to the strengthening of local government in our province will forever be etched in our hearts. Those of us who serve in municipalities felt the weight of his work directly.
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“His legacy lives on in the communities he served, and his memory will continue to inspire a generation of public servants who understand that office is a trust held on behalf of the people. May his soul Rest In Peace.”
African philanthropreneur Collen Mashawana also took to his socials and wrote, “May your soul rest in eternal peace, my dear brother. My heartfelt condolences to your family, close friends and colleagues. May you all find strength and comfort during this difficult time. Rest well, my brother.”
Khumalo’s legacy will be remembered by many who were impacted by his commitment to his role and the community. Further details about memorial and funeral arrangements will be provided later, in accordance with the wishes of the family.
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