The City of Johannesburg’s former Speaker of Council and African National Congress (ANC) councillor, Connie Bapela passed away on 16 February reportedly due to a heart attack.
The City’s current Speaker, Vasco Da Gama visited the family who said she underwent surgery and died three days later.
Da Gama said in a statement that Bapela served as the Speaker under the previous administration.
“She was currently serving as an ordinary councillor of the ANC as well as its deputy chairperson of the Greater Johannesburg region,” Da Gama said.
“She started at the City of Johannesburg in 1995 as a proportional representation councillor. She has given 20 years of service to the City.
I am saddened by her death as it is a big loss to the City. I have personally worked with her for a very long time. My deepest condolences to her family, friends and fellow councillors.”
A special council sitting will be held on 22 February at the new council chamber in memory of the late councillor.
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