Tributes pour in for Minister in the Presidency Jackson Mthembu

Gauteng ANC deputy provincial chairperson Panyaza Lesufi says they relied on Mthembu to raise issues with calmness.

Tributes are pouring in for the late Minister in the Presidency, Jackson Mthembu.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the passing of Mthembu saying the minister succumbed to Covid-19 complications.

John Perlman speaks to Gauteng ANC deputy provincial chairperson Panyaza Lesufi who says

RELATED: Minister Jackson Mthembu passes away

It is devastating, I am guttered. He was a dependable force.

Panyaza Lesufi, Deputy provincial chairperson - Gauteng ANC

Many people outside the ANC think that we don't raise the issues that people think are common sense to be raised in the ANC. Issues such as corruption and service delivery, we would rely on that person to raise such issues sharply.

Panyaza Lesufi, Deputy provincial chairperson - Gauteng ANC

To lose such a person on the eve of a war that would define who we are as the ANC as we move to the NGC and local government is like losing ourselves.

Panyaza Lesufi, Deputy provincial chairperson - Gauteng ANC

Communications expert Chris Vick said he found Mthembu incredibly accessible.

Listen to the full interview below...

When the spear was blunt #RIPJacksonMthembu will sharpen it
When debates where directionless, he will direct the debate
When anger was the order of the day, he’ll bring order and stability
We indeed lost a cadre and it will take us time to lift again these revolutionary banners pic.twitter.com/RK8O3o7sh5

— Panyaza Lesufi (@Lesufi) January 21, 2021

A leader amongst us has left this world. His heart has ceased to beat thus leaving our hearts in pain. The pain is deep and unmeasurable.

— Panyaza Lesufi (@Lesufi) January 21, 2021

This is painful.

Minister Jackson Mthembu was simply one of the best human beings I met in government. He was the definition of servanthood and was committed to getting the job done. A humble, approachable leader, eager to learn and help.

The country is so much poorer
💛✊🏾 https://t.co/sC2q8qqbBL

— Tessa Dooms (@tessie18) January 21, 2021

I'm only just hearing of Minister Mthembu's death. A devastating loss. He was a good and kind man. Always so friendly in our interactions. He had integrity and vulnerability which is so rare in our politics. May his family and loved ones find comfort and peace. #RIPJacksonMthembu

— Dr. Sithembile Mbete (@sthembete) January 21, 2021

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