Johannesburg mayor Geoff Makhubo has passed away at the age of 53.
Geoff Makhubo dies: Here are the latest updates
News of the 53-year-old’s untimely ending was confirmed on Friday. At this time, details around the death have yet to be revealed but, from what we understand, Makhubo lost his life five days after he was admitted to hospital min critical condition.
Towards the end of June, the mayor had been diagnosed with COVID-19 and according to a statement released by his office at the time, Makhubo had “gone into self-quarantine as part of the recovery process.”
“Joburg residents are urged once more to take all necessary precautions to remain safe and to avoid infection. This includes strict adherence to non-medical practices of wearing masks, sanitising regularly and minimising movement in line with the level 4 restrictions announced by the president,” his office warned at the time.
At this time, Makhubo’s political party, the ANC, has yet to issue a statement on his death.
This is how social media reacted to the news of Makhubo’s death:
It is with a heavy heart that we confirm the passing of the Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg & Regional Chairperson of the ANC, Geoff Makhubo, who was recently hospitalized. pic.twitter.com/Y2Hb0KDNmU
— ANC Greater Johannesburg Region (@ANCJHB) July 9, 2021
The Mayor of Africa’s richest city Johannesburg has died from Covid-19.
— Hopewell Chin’ono Today (@daddyhope) July 9, 2021
Geoff Makhubo was the Executive Mayor of Johannesburg.
This is another reminder that Covid-19 is here and killing!
Zimbabwe and South Africa are now in the top 5 of new Covid-19 cases in Africa!#Vaccinate pic.twitter.com/eYMUwvQdGF
We texted 21-26 June talking about how we had tested positive for COVID-19.
— Chriselda 'Babes We Ndaba' Lewis (@Chriseldalewis) July 9, 2021
I said I'd pray for him as I was also in isolation.
04 July, I texted again & he didn't answer. Now he is silent.
RIP JHB Mayor Geoff Makhubo. I'm sorry we didn't have that Glenmorangie
It's alot!
Sincerest condolences to the family of Geoff Makhubo, the Mayor of Johannesburg has passed away reportedly due to Covid.
— Ulrich Janse van Vuuren (@UlrichJvV) July 9, 2021
Shocked to hear of the passing of Johannesburg Mayor, Geoff Makhubo.
— Herman Mashaba (@HermanMashaba) July 9, 2021
In these difficult times, we are reminded of how fragile life can be. Our shared humanity will always come before our politics.
My thoughts and prayers go to his family, friends, and colleagues in the @MYANC.