A Minister in the Presidency of South Africa’s government, Jackson Mthembu has died due to COVID-19 related complications.
His death was announced in a statement signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday.
The President, in the statement expressed deep sorrow and shock over the death of his minister.
“It is with deep sorrow and shock that we announce that Minister in the Presidency Jackson Mthembu passed away earlier today from COVID-related complications.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time of loss”, the statement read.
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About Jackson Mthembu
Jackson Mphikwa Mthembu served as Minister in the Presidency of South Africa’s government, and as a parliamentarian for the African National Congress.
Previously, he served as the Whip of Parliament for the ruling ANC and as well as the national spokesperson for the ANC.
The statement by the President described Minister Mthembu as an exemplary leader, an activist and life-long champion of freedom and democracy.
The statement further said that he was a much-loved and greatly respected colleague and comrade, whose passing leaves the nation at a loss.
On 11th January, Minister Mthembu took to Twitter to announce that he had contacted COVID-19.
“Today I visited the Military hospital in Tshwane to get medical attention for an abdominal pain . After undergoing some tests, I tested positive for COVID-19 . Plans are afoot to get all my family members and close associates tested as well”, he tweeted.
