TRAGIC: Another government official killed in car crash

The Department of Justice and Correctional Services has confirmed the death of Khaya Somgqeza, one of its officials who sadly died in a car accident.

According to the department, the car crash which claimed his life occurred on Friday, 24 September 2021, outside Umthatha in the Eastern Cape.

Somgqeza served as the head of office of Deputy Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Phathekile Holomisa. He had previously worked as Divisional Manager of International Relations in Parliament.

His death comes as many are still coming to terms with the loss of City of Johannesburg Mayor Jolidee Matongo, whose life was also claimed in a car accident. Matongo was coincidentally laid to rest on the same day of Somgqeza’s accident.

Matongo’s accident occurred on the Golden Highway near Soweto and claimed two other lives – electrician Sagel Singh and an unidentified pedestrian. Two of the late mayor’s bodyguards are still in hospital.

Minister Ronald Lamola pays tribute to Khaya Somgqeza

Reacting to Khaya Somgqeza’s sudden passing, Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola described him as an experienced public servant who executed his duties with immense dedication and commitment.

“His death has sent shockwaves in the ministry, as well as both departments under the ministry’s leadership,” Lamola said.

The minister has expressed his condolences to Somgqeza’s friends and family.

“His commitment to his work and his vast experience in diplomacy, enhanced relations between the ministry and its various stakeholders. With his sharp eye for detail, Somgqeza contributed significantly towards the ministry’s mandate of creating safer communities in the country. His thoughtful insight will be sorely missed particularly when analysing various reports presented before the ministry”

Justice and Correctional Services spokesperson Chrispin Phiri