Late MEC Kolisile honoured

Economic Development MEC Nkosiphendule “Mhlekazi” Kolisile has been described as a man of deep commitment who understood and dedicated his life to community work.

Kolisile (40) died in a head-on collision along with his bodyguard Constable Tshepo Jobo, and driver Sergeant Tebogo Motsie, in the Free State on 20 July.

A memorial service was held for him at Johannesburg’s City Hall on 24 July.

Head of the Economic Development Department Albert Chanee said that Kolisile was a hands-on leader who knew the department like the back of his hand.

Chanee described him as “a gentle giant who served his portfolio with honesty and sincerity”.

He said Kolisile was looking forward to the completion of the Gauteng Township Enterprise Hubs, among other projects that he championed.

In her tribute to the MEC, Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane spoke highly of Kolisile.

She said he always placed people’s struggles first, always availed himself for tasks at hand and never believed in individualism.

“He believed in collective partnerships; he was a people’s person who was dedicated to community work,” said Mokonyane.

Mokonyane mentioned Kolisile’s achievements in his short term as an MEC for Economic Development.

“He implemented a system that helped in funding informal traders to be able to run their businesses, even those who sold peanuts at Bree taxi rank,” she added.

Mokonyane also paid tribute to Constable Tshepo Jobo and Sergeant Tebogo Motsie for being selfless protectors.

She further extended her, and the government’s, condolences to the bereaved.

Kolisile’s friend, Sabelo Mbozan, spoke of Kolisile’s commitment to fighting for the marginalised not only in the province, but in the country as a whole.