Mpumalanga premier extends condolences to late former MEC’s family
The premier described Violet Siwela as a mother of the province who strove for the development and upliftment of its people.
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The Mpumalanga premier, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, has shared her condolences with the family of the late Violet Siwela, who passed away on January 17.
Siwela served in the Mpumalanga Provincial Government as the MEC for agriculture, rural development, land and environmental affairs in 2011, and the one for human settlements in 2014.
Mtshweni-Tsipane lamented Siwela’s demise. She said her contribution to the local governance as well documented.
“Siwela’s attributes as a good leader with strong work ethics and humility are imprinted in the housing and agricultural programmes that were implemented during her tenure in both departments. Her war against poverty was the writing on the wall, with the construction of many houses to shelter citizens in distress. She went beyond the call of duty to implement poverty alleviation programmes as part of food security in Mpumalanga,” said Mtshweni-Tsipane.
Siwela also served as the speaker of the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature from 2014 to 2019. At the time of her death, she was the chairperson of the Powers and Privileges Committee in the National Assembly.
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Mtshweni-Tsipane said Siwela’s name is on the list of public representatives who served Mpumalanga with distinction and as a deployee of the ANC.
“On behalf of the Mpumalanga Provincial Government and citizens, we convey our condolences to the Siwela family. May her soul rest in peace.”
During her address at the National Senior Certificate 2023 results announcement held at the University of Mpumalanga on January 19, Mtshweni-Tsipane led a moment of silence to remember the fallen Siwela.
She described her as a mother who always strived to keep the wellness of the province.
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“We have lost a vital member who fought for women’s rights to be in leadership of the ANC. She will forever remain in our hearts,” she said.