Star Metro - Family of Woman Who Died at Voting Station Condemns Official Silence

Nomusa Zulu, a 63-year-old woman who died after collapsing while waiting to cast her ballot at a polling station in Demat, was laid to rest on Saturday. Her burial took place at Mopel Cemetery in Hammarsdale, approximately 20 kilometers southwest of the Durban central business district.

Zulu, a former worker in the expanded public works programme who had been on pension for two years, collapsed at the Shallcross Primary School voting station on Wednesday morning. She was transported to RK Khan Hospital in Chatsworth by an e-hailing vehicle arranged by her family, despite the presence of police vehicles and IEC officials at the scene. She died upon arrival at the hospital.

The family has expressed deep anger over what they describe as a lack of immediate assistance from authorities. A family member stated that no one present thought to transport Zulu to a medical facility, forcing them to arrange private transport themselves. The family believes that had IEC officials acted more swiftly, her life could have been saved.

In the aftermath of the incident, the family reported receiving no assistance, messages of condolence, or visits from the IEC or any other government agency. They described this silence as a significant part of their grief. Only the MK Party, which won ward 72 where the voting station is located, reportedly extended visits and promised to assist with funeral arrangements.

Cynthia Zulu, Nomusa’s sister, said the incident has convinced her and other family members that there is no point in voting because "nobody cares." She noted that Nomusa had gone to vote believing her ballot would bring change, but ended up being buried alone.

Amanda Zulu, Nomusa’s daughter, recounted the events leading to the collapse. She said her mother woke unusually early on Wednesday and was eager to vote. After arriving at the station, officials directed Nomusa to the front of the queue due to her age, leaving Amanda in the general line. Moments later, a neighbor called Amanda to rush inside, where she found her mother on the floor.

While previous reports indicated that election observer Pretty Jwarah and bystanders provided water and called for an ambulance, the family maintains that official medical response was absent. On Thursday, provincial electoral officer Ntombifuthi Masinga confirmed Zulu’s death and conveyed the IEC’s condolences. The family continues to argue that the IEC should have ensured medical personnel were present at voting stations.

N.Fournier--SMC