Celani Sikhakhane brings the latest news from Kwa-Zulu Natal.
Nkandla – The IFP is mourning the passing of party stalwart Mbhekiseni Biyela, known in political circles by his nickname Bhejane, who died on Monday morning after a long illness. He was hailed for making sure that the IFP would not lose the Nkandla local municipality to the ANC, when the ANC under former president Jacob Zuma was the most powerful in that area. In a statement the IFP said it had received with profound sadness the heart-breaking news of the passing of Biyela. “This is a devastating loss for the party … As mayor of Nkandla and constituency secretary he was a diligent, hardworking, and principled deployee who exemplified the IFP’s values in his service to the people.”
Folweni – “One thousand words from all of us may not be adequate to comfort the Gumede family. Only God has the power to ease their pain,” said MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma when delivering a moving message during the funeral of Nonzuzo, Samkelo, Mpendulo, Mnqobi and Nqobile Gumede. The family members perished in an accident involving a car and a truck in Harrismith, Free State. Duma ensured the bodies were brought back to KZN and that the family received support from his department. Their funeral was held on Monday at Folweni south of Durban.
Eshowe – KZN Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, alongside members of the executive council conducted a multi-disciplinary roadblock to enforce traffic rules and regulations. This initiative forms part of the provincial government’s Safer Festive Season Campaign, aimed at reducing road fatalities and ensuring the safety of all road users during the busy holiday period. The operation included multiple law enforcement agencies to underscore the government’s commitment to protecting lives and promoting responsible road use.
Durban – eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba remains confident that the city will attract over 1.3-million visitors during this festive season and has assured local and international visitors that Durban is ready to deliver a safe and memorable festive season. On Monday Xaba conducted a walkabout on the beachfront and Ushaka Marine World to interact with visitors and to assess the city’s readiness to receive more tourists who will be arriving in the next few days. The mayor was satisfied with the level of cleanliness and the high police visibility. “This is the season of relaxation and enjoyment, and I am happy that our visitors are enjoying themselves at our beaches and swimming pools,” said Xaba.
Pictured above: The IFP mayor who gave the ANC a run in Nkandla under Jacob Zuma, Mbhekiseni Bhejane Biyela, has passed away.
Source: Supplied
