Former labour minister Membathisi Mdladlana died on Friday, 18 October 2024. He was 72.
Story Summary:
- Former labour minister Membathisi Mdladlana passed away on Friday morning, 18 October 2024, at age 72.
- Mdladlana was a significant figure in South African politics, serving as labour minister under Nelson Mandela and subsequent presidents.
- Tributes have poured in from President Cyril Ramaphosa, Cosatu, and Sadtu, acknowledging his contributions to the country’s liberation struggle and labour movement.
Membathisi Mdladlana dies: What’s the cause of death?
His death was confirmed by Cosatu‘s parliamentary coordinator, Matthew Parks.
No official cause of death has been provided as yet, but the news has led to an outpouring of tributes from political figures and labour organisations.
Membathisi Mdladlana biography
Membathisi Mphumzi Shepherd Mdladlana was born on 12 May 1952 in Keiskammahoek, Eastern Cape.
He was a pivotal figure in South African politics, serving as the country’s labour minister from 1998 to 2010 under four different presidents: Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki, Kgalema Motlanthe, and Jacob Zuma.
Before his political career, Mdladlana was a teacher and principal, later earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in education and isiXhosa from the University of South Africa in 1997.
His leadership was instrumental in uniting various teacher unions, and he was elected the first president of the South African Democratic Teachers Union (Sadtu) in 1990.
In addition to his role as labour minister, he also served as South Africa’s High Commissioner to Canada.
Mdladlana’s efforts extended beyond education and labour reform; he played a significant part in the fight against apartheid and was deeply involved in the African National Congress (ANC) and the United Democratic Front (UDF).
His long-standing commitment to public service is widely respected across the political spectrum.
Reactions to Mdladlana’s death
President Cyril Ramaphosa led the tributes to Mdladlana, expressing deep sorrow over his passing:
“Membathisi Mdladlana’s passing is a loss to his family and friends as much as it is to the nation. He provided leadership in a strategic sector of our struggle, and his contributions will live on in our hearts and our history.”
Labour union federation Cosatu also honoured Mdladlana, praising his dedication to building a democratic, non-racial, and non-sexist South Africa.
The Congress noted his tireless work in uniting teacher unions and advancing workers’ rights during a time of significant political change in the country.
Sadtu spokesperson Nomusa Cembi remarked on his leadership during critical moments of labour organisation, stating:
“He ensured unity at a time when there were many fragmented unions, and his leadership led to meaningful progress for educators and labourers alike.”
Mdladlana’s legacy is remembered for his contributions to both the labour movement and the broader struggle for equality and democracy in South Africa.
