Mr Mokonyane was a pillar of strength to his family – ANC

The ANC has sent their heartfelt condolences to the Mokonyane family after news of Serge Mokonyane’s passing. He was the husband of Environmental Affairs Minister, Nomvula Mokonyane.

Family spokesperson Mlimandlela Ndamase confirmed the news on Thursday morning and said Serge passed away after being hospitalised for an illness.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mr Serge Mokonyane, husband to Minister of Environmental Affairs, Nomvula Mokonyane, at a Johannesburg hospital this morning.

“The minister and family are officially in mourning and humbly request privacy at this moment of grief.”

The ANC, which Nomvula is a proud member of, were in shock following news of Serge’s passing.

“Ntate [Mr] Mokonyane was a pillar of strength to his family and provided much-needed support to his children including [cadre] Nomvula who spent most of her time working for the people of our country. Ntate Mokonyane passed away in the morning today,” the party said in a statement.

“The ANC is saddened by the news of the passing on of this activist. We can imagine the pain the Mokanyane family is going through after losing a father and a supportive husband. This is a sad loss to the entire mass democratic movement.

“Ntate Mokonyane was a brother, father and comrade to many people. The ANC urges the South Africans to pray for the Mokonyane family during this difficult time.

May the soul of Ntate Mokonyane rest in peace and may the lord comfort the entire family during this trying time.”

President Cyril Ramaphosa also issued a statement extending his condolences to the Mokonyane family.

President Ramaphosa’s thoughts and prayers are with Minister Mokonyane, her immediate and extended family, and friends and associates of Mr Mokonyane, read the statement.

For more news your way, download The Citizen’s app for iOS and Android.