KwaZulu-Natal awoke to a profound silence on Monday as the news of Nkosentsha Shezi’s death spread. He was a passionate political figure whose loyalty and beliefs shaped his public persona.
Shezi, a Member of Parliament for the uMkhonto weSizwe Party and a strong supporter of former president Jacob Zuma, passed away on Sunday due to natural causes. He was remembered as both a mobiliser and a champion of the people.
The confirmation came from party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhela, who characterized Shezi as disciplined, brave, and deeply dedicated to social justice. “We have lost a patriot,” Ndhela stated, reflecting the sorrow felt by many throughout the province.
From his involvement in the African National Congress’s RET faction to his later position in the MK Party, Shezi remained steadfast. Together with Carl Niehaus, he played a key role in rallying supporters during Zuma’s 2021 arrest—events that solidified his reputation as a bold organiser.
Colleagues express that his death creates more than just a political void—it leaves an emotional gap. For many in KwaZulu-Natal, Shezi was not merely a leader, but a symbol of resistance, now sadly silenced.
Email: motshwari@onenews.co.za
