Parliament, Friday 1 November 2019 – Parliament’s Presiding Officers, led by National Assembly Speaker Ms Thandi Modise and National Council of Provinces Chairperson Mr Amos Masondo, are deeply saddened at the passing away of seasoned radio and television journalist Mr. Xolani Gwala early this morning, 1 November 2019.
In September 2017, Mr Gwala announced that he had been diagnosed with colon cancer, which he courageously fought, but ultimately succumbed to.
From his birthplace - the small town of Impendle in KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Gwala went on to acquire some two decades of outstanding broadcast experience and acclaim in radio and television – as a reporter, news anchor, producer, talk show host and current affairs presenter. Throughout this time, he remained a caring human being on and off-air.
An incredibly talented facilitator of national dialogue through diverse platforms over the years, Gwala made a huge contribution to nation-building and social cohesion. The story of the evolving maturity of our democracy cannot be told without mentioning the role of paragons of ethical, upright, passionate and highly professional journalists such as Gwala.
His voice has fallen silent now but our memories of him will remain.
As the Presiding Officers of Parliament, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Mr Gwala’s wife, family, colleagues and friends.
#RIPXolaniGwala
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
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