Minister Jackson Mthembu dies of Covid-19

MINISTER in the Presidency, Jackson Mthembu died on Thursday due to Covid-19 complications.

The announcement was made by President Cyril Ramaphosa in a statement.

“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,” said Ramaphosa.

Mthembu, 62, announced on Twitter on 11 January, that he checked himself into a hospital in Tshwane after testing positive for Covid-19.

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He is the first cabinet minister in South Africa to die of Covid-19 complications.

“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,” said Ramaphosa.  

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