Ex-mayor dies after long illness

THE South African Communist Party (SACP) is mourning the death of former Metsimaholo mayor, Lindiwe Tshongwe, who died on Tuesday, 21 May, after a long illness.

Tshongwe was SACP Free State deputy chairwoman and ANC Women's League convenor for the Fezile Dabi region. She served as the municipality's MMC for Finance at the time of her death.

SACP Free State spokesman, Phillip Kganyago said: "She became the first SACP mayor elected to lead the Metsimaholo Municipality following a direct electoral participation by the SACP in 2017."

Metsimaholo mayor, Jack Malindi said a heavy dark cloud hangs over the municipality and sent his condolences to the Tshongwe family and friends.

He said Tshongwe was also an ANC PR councillor at the time of her death and highly active in the implementation of development in the municipality, particularly integrated planning as she was responsible for IDP and the performance reporting function.

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"Undoubtedly, news of her passing sent shock waves throughout the entire Metsimaholo municipal area, as well as the entire Fezile Dabi district. We were still expecting a lot from her, in terms of contributing to the development and changing the lives of our communities," said Malindi.

Malindi said Tshongwe's death has deprived Metsimaholo of one of the brightest rising stars who was committed to the development of her community.

"We're in serious devastation as it is. Her astuteness and vigilance will be dearly missed. The municipality has lost a steadfast, raw, vigilant but committed community activist whose life story is testimony of selfless service to others.

"Tshongwe devoted her life to serving the community of Metsimaholo with humility, dedication and commitment. It's a huge loss to the council and the community of Metsimaholo. She was a well-respected and dedicated councilor," he said.