Reacting to Mthembu’s sudden passing, members of the public visited his family in this area to show their support and to offer condolences.
Rethabile Quinton Malaphane, a neighbour, said Mthembu had been like a father to most young people in the community. “We are still surprised and shocked at this news.
We have lost a father, while many lost a brother. He was rooted and never allowed fame and money to change him. I grew up with his children and he treated not just me like his own child, but many others in the area. We will dearly miss him,” said Malaphane.
Gogo Mariah Sihlangu, also a neighbour, described Mthembu as a loving and caring soul. “He was a people’s person. His love for people drove him to stay here in the township with the people. This is very saddening and I wish God had taken some of us because we are old. What is even more painful is that we will not get to say our final goodbyes because of Covid-19,” she said.
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A family member said Mthembu’s funeral service will be held at eMalahleni at a date still to be confirmed.
A wall of remembrance is being set up at his KaNyamazane home to allow local people to have their proper goodbye.
The Mpumalanga premier, Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, said Mthembu’s memories and legacy will always live in their hearts. Mthembu passed away yesterday (Thursday), just six days after it had been reported that he had tested positive to Covid-19.
