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Parliament, Saturday, 26 March 2022 – The Presiding Officers of Parliament, led by the Speaker of the National Assembly (NA), Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa Nqakula, and Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), Mr Amos Masondo, are shocked and saddened by the sudden passing-on of Member of Parliament, Mr Mxolisi Sokhatsha at the age of 57.
Mr Sokhatsha tragically passed away last night in a car accident.
Mr Sokhatsha was ANC representative in the National Assembly, and has been a member of the Portfolio Committee of Health since joining Parliament in 2019.
A dedicated and experienced servant who cut his political tooth in youth activism, Mr Sokhatsha served South Africa, particularly his province of the Northern Cape, with great selflessness, commitment and passion. He served the province in various capacities, including as the first Mayor of Richmond after the 1994 democratic breakthrough, as provincial legislator and as a member of the executive in various portfolios such as roads and public works as well as health.
The Presiding Officers said the passing of Mr Sokhatsha, particularly under such tragic circumstances, was devastating and deeply painful.
“Parliament and the people of this country have been robbed of a devoted public representative with an untiring commitment to the service of the people. In his passing, we have not only lost an astute legislator, but a true leader, patriot, and a servant who always went an extra mile to serve his people.
“His contributions to the various parliamentary sittings and committee meetings advanced and strengthened the oversight mandate of Parliament. His experience, particularly in health, greatly bolstered parliamentary oversight and the institution's role during the battle against the Covid-19 pandemic. We are deeply saddened and devasted by his passing”, the Presiding Officers added.
The Presiding Officers have conveyed their heartfelt condolences to Mr Sokhatsha’s family, friends and comrades.
ISSUED BY PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
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