Mzi Khumalo Honoured With Special Provincial Funeral
JOHANNESBURG — President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a Special Provincial Official Funeral Category 2 for the late former Gauteng MEC, Mzikayifane Elias Khumalo. The decision follows a formal request by Premier Panyaza Lesufi to honour Khumalo for his extensive service to the provincial government and the residents of Gauteng.
The President directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast throughout Gauteng on Saturday. This gesture serves as a mark of respect for the veteran politician, who passed away on Monday, 10 August 2026, following a short illness. Khumalo will be laid to rest today at the Heroes Acre in West Park Cemetery.
Khumalo was a prominent figure in Gauteng politics, having served as the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA). At the time of his death, he remained active in public service as a Member of the Provincial Legislature, where he chaired the Portfolio Committee on CoGTA.
His career included significant roles in local government. He served as the Mayor of the Randfontein Local Municipality between 2015 and 2016. Following a municipal merger, he became the Mayor of the newly established Rand West City Local Municipality, a position he held until 2019.
The transition from local government to the provincial executive underscored his influence within the ruling party and his role in managing municipal affairs across the province. The granting of a Category 2 funeral is reserved for distinguished persons who have made significant contributions to the country or a specific province.
The provincial government has expressed its condolences to the Khumalo family, noting his dedication to public administration. The funeral service is expected to be attended by high-ranking provincial officials and political colleagues.
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