Wednesday, 2 August 2017 – The Presiding Officers of Parliament, on behalf of Parliament, have conveyed heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Mr Timothy Khoza, an African National Congress Member of Parliament, who tragically lost his life as a result of a devastating car accident this morning.
Mr Khoza, who joined Parliament in 2014 as a Member of the National Assembly, served in the Portfolio Committees on Basic Education and Small Business Development.
Mr Khoza was one of the four MPs involved in a road accident this morning while on the way to visit various schools in Paarl, Western Cape, as part of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education’s oversight programme. The other MPs, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education Ms Nomalungelo Gina, Mr Ian Ollis and Ms Cynthia Majeke, were receiving the necessary medical attention at a hospital in Paarl.
Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Mr Lechesa Tsenoli visited the injured MPs at the hospital earlier today. He said: “We convey our deepest condolences to the family of comrade Khoza, the African National Congress as well as his fellow members and staff who worked with him. I have seen the three members and feel confident they will recover from their shocking accident. They have already received examinations by doctors and, while still shocked, they are glad they are alive - their ordeal is unbelievable.
“We are grateful to the staff, including Protection Services, who played a critical supportive role during this unfortunate development. We must thank, too, Members of Parliament, Chief Whips and a Deputy Chief Whip of political parties who came over to support their members, the MEC of Health of the (Western Cape) Province and the leadership of the hospital who understood our need to see our members, even as they protected them so doctors could first do their work. Parliament will discuss the Committee’s work and what will happen to it.”
The Presiding Officers have expressed shock and devastation at this tragedy, and have extended their heartfelt sympathies to the family, friends and comrades of Mr Khoza. Mr Khoza was known amongst his colleagues in Parliament as a devoted public representative with untiring commitment and dedication to the service of the people.
Our thoughts and prayers are also with the three injured MPs and the occupants of the other vehicle involved in the crash for their speedy recovery.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
Enquiries: Moloto Mothapo 082 370 6930
Arrange a tour