A SENIOR ANC councillor in the Nelson Mandela Bay died from Covid-19 complications on Tuesday, 24 November.
Acting council chief whip, Ncediso Captain, had been fighting for his life at a hospital in Port Elizabeth since last week.
He was the second councillor to die this month.
Former mayor Mongameli Bobani died two weeks ago.
Council speaker Buyelwa Mafaya announced the sad news during a special meeting to elect a new mayor.
“It’s a sad day for the ANC and councillors of the Nelson Mandela Bay as we’ve lost our colleague, Ncediso Captain.
“Captain was hospitalised for a week after he showed signs of Covid-19,” she said.
The city’s councillors described Captain as an activist and champion of the poor.
DA provincial leader, Nqaba Bhanga, said: “The DA extends its sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Captain.
“He was a true gentleman and educationalist who built many of us. “He was courteous in his dealings with everyone and always ensured robust debate.
“He served with dedication and distinction.
“He stood firm for democracy and he was prepared to die for it. He will be sorely missed.”
Acting mayor and African Independent Congress councillor, Thsonono Buyeye, described Captain as a good leader.
“It really is a loss for us. His passing is a big blow to the people of this metro, as he worked tirelessly for service delivery,” he said.
Cope’s Siyasanga Sijadu said: “He was an ethical leader and one of the best councillors in the Nelson Mandela Bay.”
