On Thursday the Presidency released a statement announcing the passing of the Minister in the Presidency, Jackson Mthembu, due to Covid-19 related implications.
“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,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said in his statement.
This news comes after Mthembu took to Twitter on Monday, 11 January to state that he went to the Military hospital in Tshwane to receive medical attention, following abdominal pain. “After undergoing some tests, I tested positive for Covid-19,” read the tweet.
The minister also took the time to thank the many South Africans who wished him a speedy recover, saying that “as a people we must overcome Covid-19”.
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.
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 #StaySafe (@CyrilRamaphosa) January 21, 2021
The president has extended his deepest sympathies to the family, friends, colleagues and comrades of the Minister.
