MINISTER in the Presidency Jackson Mthembu is the latest government official to die due to deadly Covid-19.
The death of Jackson Mthembu comes as another government official, MEC Bheki Ntuli, who also died of Covid-19 complications, is being laid to rest in KZN.
In a statement from the Presidency, President Ramaphosa said, “It is with deep sorrow and shock that we announce that Minister in the Presidency Jackson Mthembu passed away earlier today from Covid-related complications.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time of loss."
Ramaphosa said, “Minister Mthembu was an exemplary leader, an activist and life-long champion of freedom and democracy. He was a much-loved and greatly respected colleague and comrade, whose passing leaves our nation at a loss."
“I extend my deepest sympathies to the Minister’s family, to his colleagues, comrades and many friends."
Mthembu had tested positive on the 11 January, after he went to seek medical attention for abdominal pains.
He twitted "Today I visited the Military hospital in Tshwane to get medical attention for an abdominal pain . After undergoing some tests , I tested positive for Covid 19 . Plans are afoot to get all my family members and close associates tested as well."
Today I visited the Military hospital in Tshwane to get medical attention for an abdominal pain . After undergoing some tests , I tested positive for Covid 19 . Plans are afoot to get all my family members and close associates tested as well .
— Minister Jackson Mthembu (@JacksonMthembu_) January 11, 2021
The health protocols are very important and best defense against the virus , they are not a silver bullet . That’s why there are millions affected , recovering and dying throughput the world . I know that I might have got infected from my daughter who tested positive earlier.
— Minister Jackson Mthembu (@JacksonMthembu_) January 12, 2021
Mthembu served as the ANC’s Chief Whip before he was appointed by Ramaphosa to occupy the post of Minister in the Presidency.
