KwaZulu-Natal is in mourning following the tragic death of former Newcastle Executive Mayor and medical doctor Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba, who was killed after being struck by a vehicle while jogging in Newcastle on Saturday morning. Police have opened a culpable homicide investigation into the incident.
A memorial service in honour of the 44 year-old was held in Newcastle on Thursday 9 July, ahead of his funeral service on Saturday 11 July, where family, friends, political leaders and members of the public gathered to pay their final respects.
Dr Mahlaba served in several prominent leadership positions throughout his political career, including Executive Mayor of Newcastle Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Human Settlements and Public Works, MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, ANC Provincial Treasurer, and most recently as Chairperson of Committees in the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature. A qualified medical practitioner, he was widely recognised for his energetic leadership and commitment to public service.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across the political and civic landscape following news of his passing. Government leaders, political parties, colleagues and community organisations have expressed their condolences, remembering him as a committed public servant whose influence extended beyond political affiliations.
The ANC in KwaZulu-Natal described his death as a significant loss to the organisation and the province, praising his dedication to serving communities and extending heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. Other political parties, including the Inkatha Freedom Party, also conveyed messages of sympathy, acknowledging his contribution to public life and recognising the profound loss suffered by his loved ones.
The Newcastle Growth Coalition also paid tribute to Dr Mahlaba. In a statement, chairperson Johan Pieters described him as “a humble leader who cared deeply for the people of Newcastle and KwaZulu-Natal” and remembered him as “a dedicated family man to whom family meant everything”. The organisation extended its deepest condolences to his wife, twins, mother and sister, saying its thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time.
Throughout his public life, Dr Mahlaba remained a prominent and, at times, controversial political figure. His career attracted both praise and criticism, reflecting the realities of public office. Supporters regarded him as a resilient and committed leader, while others questioned aspects of his public record. These differing perspectives formed part of a career that left a lasting imprint on KwaZulu-Natal politics.
Despite differing views on his legacy, there has been broad agreement that his sudden passing marks the loss of an influential figure in provincial politics. As family, friends, colleagues and the people of Newcastle mourn his passing, many have reflected on his years of public service and the impact he had on the communities he served.
