Former Gauteng MEC Mzi Khumalo dies after short illness

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has expressed his profound sadness following the death of former Gauteng MEC Mzikayifani Elias “Mzi” Khumalo.

Khumalo, who was affectionately known as Mzi, died following a short illness on Monday, August 10, 2026.

His death has also been mourned by the Collen Mashawana Foundation, which described him as a consistent, dependable and loyal friend of the organisation.

Khumalo dedicated much of his career to public service and the development of local government in Gauteng.

He served as mayor of the then Randfontein Local Municipality from 2015 to 2016 before becoming the executive mayor of the newly established Rand West City Local Municipality, a position he held until 2019.

In May 2019, Khumalo was elected to the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, where he served as chief whip of the majority party until October 2022.

He was subsequently appointed MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), e-Government, Research and Development, serving in the Gauteng Executive Council from October 2022 until June 2024.

At the time of his death, Khumalo was serving as chairperson of the Gauteng Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on COGTA.

In this role, he was responsible for oversight of municipal governance, traditional affairs and local government compliance across the province.

His responsibilities included conducting oversight visits to municipalities, engaging with local government structures and monitoring service delivery to communities.

“He served the people of this province selflessly. He understood that public service is about listening to people’s concerns, responding to their needs and working to build communities in which people can live with dignity and hope,” Lesufi said.

The premier noted that Khumalo’s death came on the eve of the Local Government Elections, saying his absence would be deeply felt as municipalities prepare for a new local government term.

“It is therefore particularly touching that Mzi’s passing comes on the eve of the Local Government Elections. He would have continued playing an important role in the oversight of the province’s municipalities,” Lesufi said.

The premier said Khumalo’s contribution would be remembered in efforts to ensure municipalities remained accountable, responsive and focused on delivering services to communities.

The Collen Mashawana Foundation also paid tribute to Khumalo, describing him as more than a respected leader and public servant.

“Mzi was more than a respected leader and public servant; he was a consistent, dependable and loyal friend of the Foundation,” the organisation said.

According to the foundation, Khumalo regularly supported its programmes and participated as a speaker at several of its initiatives.

It said his commitment to uplifting communities and restoring dignity to those in need reflected the values of the foundation.

“We will remember him for his friendship, humility, leadership and unwavering support,” the foundation said.

Lesufi extended his condolences to the Khumalo family, his colleagues, friends and all those whose lives were touched by his leadership and contribution to public life.

“His life had meaning, his service mattered and he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to live on in the people and institutions he served,” Lesufi said.