Chronicle Editor
Bongani Ndlovu, Chronicle Reporter
SOUTH Africa’s minister in the presidency Jackson Mthembu died from COVID-19 related complications on Thursday morning.
President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed his passing describing minister Mthembu, who tested Covid-19 positive on January 11, as an exemplary leader.
“It is with deep sorrow and shock that we announce that Minister in The Presidency, Jackson Mthembu passed away earlier today from COVID-19 related complications. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time of loss,” said President Ramaphosa in a statement.
“Minister Mthembu was an exemplary leader, an activist and life-long champion of freedom and democracy. He was a much-loved and greatly respected colleague and comrade, whose passing leaves our nation at a loss.
“I extend my deepest sympathies to the Minister’s family, to his colleagues, comrades and many friends.”
Minister Mthembu’s death comes a day after the death of Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Dr Sibusiso Moyo also from Covid-19.
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