CONDOLENCES have been pouring in from all over the country for well-known Zululand traditional leader Inkosi Khayelihle Mathaba, who tragically died on Saturday night in a car accident near Melmoth.
The crash took place on the R66 in Nkwalini but his body was reportedly only found a day later inside his vehicle. According to police reports, the car was hidden from view by nearby trees when discovered on Sunday. Mathaba was the only occupant in the car at the time of the accident.
A former member of the provincial legislature in KZN and Inkosi of the eMacambini traditional community, Mathaba was one of the key contributors to the land reform issue in KZN.
Born in Mtunzini, he was a member of the KZN Provincial House of Traditional Leaders and a former IFP member of the provincial legislature. He was frequently in the media spotlight for his land claim controversies including an attempt to remove the Dunn farming clan from their land after the matriarch of the clan, Pat Dunn died in April.
Mathaba held a diploma in administration from the University of Zululand.
He was also the vice president of the Ilembe Motor Cycle Club which he started last year with current president of the club, Xola Mzimela.
‘Inkosi was instrumental in the formation of the club and its daily running. If there was a problem, Inkosi would always find a solution. Every member of the club was shocked and devastated by the news and we are all very hurt and deeply saddened,’ said Mzimela.
Tributes
Social media was abuzz after the news of Mathaba’s death with tributes streaming in from motor cycles clubs around the country and a mass ride been organised to attend his funeral.
‘This is so sad. Heaven has gained yet another angel. Prayers are with the family and Ilembe MCC during this time. Helmets up!’ said Ibhuto MCC member Jane Eckersley.
‘Rest in peace Inkosi KW Mathaba – one of the few Kings who were bikers,’ shared Impi MCC (The Italians)
‘I passed the accident the morning it happened and I was unaware that it was one of us. He was a friend of my late father. I hope their friendship carries on, even after death. May his dear soul rest in peace,’ said Sdu Mtshali.
