Shocking reports of the passing of Presidency Minister Jackson Mthembu were confirmed by President Cyril Ramaphosa, on Thursday.
Breaking: Jackson Mthembu dies aged 62
The president, in a tweet, confirmed that Mthembu passed away “earlier today from Covid-related complications.”
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.
— Cyril Ramaphosa #StaySafe (@CyrilRamaphosa) January 21, 2021
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time of loss.
Early last week, the Presidency revealed, in a statement, that Mthembu had tested positive for Covid-19, “after showing some symptoms.”
He was immediately placed in quarantine and at the time, Presidency spokesperson Phumla Williams described the 62-year-old’s condition as a man “in high spirits.”
“[Minister Mthembu] wishes all those who are also fighting the Coronavirus a speedy recovery,” she wrote.
South Africa mourns Mthembu
News of the minsiter’s passing has reverberated across the internet, leaving many in shock.
Political leaders and ordinary civilians paid tribute to the 62-year-old. Here are some of the reactions:
#RIPJacksonMthembu
— Tumi Sole (@tumisole) January 21, 2021
Condolences to the Mthembu family, friends, MPs and relatives.
The Presidency has announced that Minister Mthembu passed away due to covid-19 related complications.
pic.twitter.com/9apKZGugt8
Jackson Mthembu
— Julius Sello Malema (@Julius_S_Malema) January 21, 2021
When the spear was blunt #RIPJacksonMthembu will sharpen it
— Panyaza Lesufi (@Lesufi) January 21, 2021
When debates where directionless, he will direct the debate
When anger was the order of the day, he’ll bring order and stability
We indeed lost a cadre and it will take us time to lift again these revolutionary banners pic.twitter.com/RK8O3o7sh5
Mthembu is survived by his wife Thembi and his two brothers Michael and Mandla.