THE tragic death of beloved KwaDube Tribal Authority administrator Hendrick Mahlawula, has unleashed a fountain of grief from royalty to the rural poor, as the community prepares to honour the leader’s life and legacy.
Anticipation is mounting in uGobandlovu Reserve outside eSikhaleni, with preparations for his funeral in full swing.
Thousands of mourners are expected to assemble at Tisand Tehcnical High School on Saturday, to celebrate the life of the fallen hero.
Mahlawula was gunned down in his car at eMabuyeni last Friday.
According to the police, he was on his way back home from an event with other passengers at 5pm, when he was attacked by unknown gunmen who opened fire on his vehicle.
His car was reportedly sprayed with 16 bullets.
He sustained two shots to his upper back and one on his leg and died on the scene.
Mahlawula was appointed as council administrator by the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) last year, after the death of acting chief Charles Chili.
His appointment caused confusion in the community and resulted in angry protests by villagers who locked the gate to the tribal court, denying entry to tribal councillors.
Community members told the Zululand Observer that he was a humble leader who inspired change in the community.
‘Many thing changed since he took over as administrator. Even right now our roads are being refurbished.
‘It is a great loss to the community and we hope they catch his killers,’ they said.
On Thursday the community will remember their leader in a memorial service at oGobandlovu Community Hall.
eSikhawini police spokesperson Lt Thembinkosi Mkhumane said no arrests have yet been made.
