Gauteng ANC spokesperson Mzi Khumalo has died after collapsing and falling down a flight of stairs at his home in Ruimsig, Johannesburg, in the early hours of Monday morning.
Khumalo, whose full name was Mzikayifane Elias Khumalo, was declared dead on arrival at Pinehaven Hospital at approximately 12.15am.
Police have since opened an inquest into his death as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
According to a police report, officers were called to the hospital at about 2am after receiving an inquest complaint. A registered nurse told police that Khumalo, who was also a member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, had been brought to the hospital after collapsing at his residence at Willowbrook Estate in Ruimsig, west of Johannesburg.
Khumalo was reportedly found lying on a bed in an examination room in the hospital’s casualty section. The police report states that blood was “oozing from the back of his head” and that he had sustained an open wound in the area.
A doctor identified as Dr Khuwa declared him dead at approximately 12.15am.
The circumstances leading to his death remain under investigation. According to witnesses at Khumalo’s residence, he had been hosting a party when he suddenly collapsed and fell down the stairs, sustaining injuries.
Police confirmed that the matter is being investigated under the Honeydew police station and that an inquest has been opened.
Khumalo’s death comes as a shock to the Gauteng political community, with the circumstances of the sudden tragedy now the subject of an official investigation.
Tributes have since begun pouring in for Khumalo, with businessman and philanthropist Dr Collen Mashawana among those mourning his passing. Paying tribute to his “dear brother”, Mashawana extended his condolences to Khumalo’s family, friends and colleagues.
“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,” he said.
