By Thabo Mosia
In a statement issued by Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President, it was announced that Acting President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has declared a Special Official Funeral Category 2 in honour of the late former Minister of Labour and South African High Commissioner to Canada, Membathisi Mphumzi Shepherd Mdladlana, who passed away at the age of 72.
Acting President Mashatile expressed his deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Mdladlana, acknowledging the former Minister’s immense contributions to South Africa’s democratic history. Born in 1952, Mr. Mdladlana served in various pivotal roles, including as a school teacher and principal before entering politics.
After the first democratic elections in 1994, Mr. Mdladlana became a member of South Africa’s first democratic Parliament. Four years later, in 1998, he was appointed Minister of Labour by President Nelson Mandela, a position he held during the presidencies of Thabo Mbeki, Kgalema Motlanthe, and Jacob Zuma. His tenure as Minister was marked by significant reforms in labour laws and workers’ rights, which aimed to uplift working conditions for many South Africans, particularly those in vulnerable sectors.
The Special Official Funeral Category 2 declared for Mr. Mdladlana will include ceremonial elements, including a police honour guard presented by the South African Police Service. The funeral will take place in Cape Town on Saturday, 26 October 2024, with more details expected to follow.
In tribute to the late leader, Acting President Mashatile has also instructed that the National Flag be flown at half-mast across the country from Wednesday, 23 October 2024, until the evening of the funeral on Saturday.
Mr. Mdladlana’s legacy extends beyond his role in government. He was a staunch advocate for workers’ rights and played a key role in shaping South Africa’s post-apartheid labour landscape, focusing on job creation, fair wages, and addressing inequalities in the workplace. His leadership as Minister of Labour helped to forge critical policies, including the introduction of the Skills Development Act, which continues to impact South Africa’s workforce today.
After leaving the government, Mr. Mdladlana served as South Africa’s High Commissioner to Canada from 2012 to 2017, further cementing his diplomatic and political credentials. His diplomatic efforts contributed significantly to strengthening South Africa’s relations with Canada during his tenure.
His passing marks the loss of a pivotal figure in South Africa’s journey towards establishing fair labour practices and advancing workers’ rights. Acting President Mashatile highlighted the deep impact of Mr. Mdladlana’s work on the South African labour movement and the development of worker-related legislation that still benefits South Africans today.
As tributes pour in from across the political spectrum, it is clear that Mr. Mdladlana’s work transcended political affiliation, with many remembering him as a steadfast advocate for the working class and an instrumental figure in shaping South Africa’s labour policies during the transition to democracy.
Further statements are expected from key political figures, labour unions, and civil society organizations who worked closely with Mr. Mdladlana. His funeral is anticipated to draw significant national attention, with numerous officials and dignitaries expected to attend to pay their respects.
In closing, Acting President Mashatile noted, “We mourn the loss of a leader whose lifelong dedication to public service and the welfare of South Africa’s workers will continue to inspire future generations.”
Additional details regarding the funeral service, including government and family arrangements, will be communicated as they are finalized. The Special Official Funeral honours the legacy of a man who left an indelible mark on South African politics and labour reforms. The event will be broadcast on national television, with public commemorations likely to take place across the country as South Africans reflect on the life and contributions of Membathisi Mdladlana.
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