IT is sad that Dr Murunwa Makwarela died before he had his day in court.
These were the words of Cope Gauteng chairman Tom Mofokeng while speaking about the passing of its ex-party member.
Makwarela, who was also former Tshwane mayor, died at Leratong Hospital in Krugersdorp on Tuesday, 22 April, after a short illness.
At the time of his death, he was facing two counts of fraud, one over his failure to disclose his insolvency status and another for submitting a fake rehabilitation letter to the Tshwane council in an attempt to keep his mayoral seat.
He was a Cope councillor at the time, but parted ways with the party after he was exposed.
Mofokeng said Cope didn't expel Makwarela but he resigned while they were still trying to understand what had happened.
“He didn't disclose his debt. This is a problem with black people. We have debt we can't repay, and sometimes have debt and know what to do after we've been exposed.
“No one teaches us about bankruptcy and repossession of properties issues,” he said.
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Meanwhile, the NPA said it plans to withdraw the fraud charges against Makwarela after it receives his death certificate.
The EFF in Tshwane joined other political parties and sent their condolences to the Makwarela family.
EFF Tshwane chairman Obakeng Ramabodu said: “Dubious actions and fraudulent behaviour that have come to light surrounding Makwarela's time in office can't be overlooked. The DA's reckless pursuit of power at the expense of ethical governance has once again been exposed through their support of an unqualified individual for the position of Speaker all these years.”
He said as they reflect on Makwarela's death, they're reminded of the critical importance of upholding ethical standards and fighting against corruption in their governance.
The ANC's Greater Tshwane region said Makwarela served the people of Tshwane with passion during his term of office.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Dr Makwarela, his congregation, friends, comrades and the people of Tshwane in general for the loss of a son, husband, father and servant leader,” said ANC regional secretary, George Matjila.
