KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, today joined mourners at the funeral of His Worship, Councillor Mbhekiseni “Bhejane” Biyela, the late Mayor of Nkandla Local Municipality.

Councillor Biyela, who had been serving as Mayor since the 2021 local government elections, passed away in the early hours of Monday morning following a short illness. His funeral was held at the Emahlayizeni area in Nkandla Local Municipality, where family, friends, colleagues, and community members gathered to pay their final respects.

During the funeral, Premier Ntuli expressed his condolences to the Biyela family and the Nkandla community, highlighting Councillor Biyela’s dedication to public service. “Councillor Biyela was a committed leader who worked tirelessly for the development of Nkandla and its people. His passing is not just a loss for this municipality but for the entire province of KwaZulu-Natal,” said the Premier.

The Premier acknowledged Biyela’s significant contributions to local governance and his efforts to uplift Nkandla, particularly in addressing infrastructure development, service delivery, and community empowerment initiatives.

Under Councillor Biyela’s leadership, Nkandla Local Municipality made strides in tackling socio-economic challenges and implementing projects aimed at improving the lives of residents. Colleagues described him as a visionary leader with a deep sense of responsibility and a strong connection to the community he served.

“Mayor Biyela’s legacy will live on in the many lives he touched and the development he championed for the municipality,” said one of his colleagues during the service.

The funeral drew a large crowd, with dignitaries from various sectors joining the Nkandla community in mourning the loss of a leader many regarded as a pillar of strength and guidance. Traditional leaders, municipal officials, and provincial representatives shared messages of tribute, recalling Councillor Biyela’s humility, passion, and dedication.

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government extended its sympathies to the family of the late Mayor and the Nkandla Local Municipality. The Premier called for unity during this difficult time, urging the Nkandla community to honor Councillor Biyela’s memory by continuing the work he had begun.

As Nkandla bids farewell to Councillor Mbhekiseni “Bhejane” Biyela, the province of KwaZulu-Natal reflects on his legacy of servant leadership and unwavering commitment to his people. His contributions to the development of Nkandla will remain a lasting testament to his vision and dedication.