Dr. Ntuthuko Mahlaba, an ANC provincial legislator and former mayor of Newcastle, died Saturday morning after a vehicle struck him while jogging [1], [2].

The death of a prominent political figure in KwaZulu-Natal marks a significant loss for the African National Congress in the region. Mahlaba held multiple leadership roles, serving as both a local administrator and a provincial representative.

The incident occurred July 4, 2026 [2], near Newcastle in the KwaZulu-Natal province [3]. Mahlaba, who was 44 years old [2], was out for a morning jog when he was run over by a vehicle [1], [2]. The impact caused fatal injuries that led to his death.

Mahlaba was a well-known figure in the province, having served as the mayor of Newcastle and as a member of the provincial legislature [1], [2]. Some reports also identify him as a former KZN MEC [3].

Family members and political colleagues have begun mourning the loss of the legislator. Tributes have poured in for the man who balanced his medical background with a career in public service, and governance [3].

Local authorities in KwaZulu-Natal are managing the aftermath of the accident. The sudden nature of the event has left the community near Newcastle in shock as they process the loss of a former civic leader [3].

“Dr. Ntuthuko Mahlaba, an ANC provincial legislator and former mayor of Newcastle, died Saturday morning”

The sudden death of Dr. Mahlaba removes a versatile leader from the ANC's provincial structure in KwaZulu-Natal. Because he bridged the gap between local municipal governance in Newcastle and provincial legislative duties, his absence may create a temporary leadership void in regional party coordination.