LIMPOPO Treasury MEC, Seaparo Sekoati, has been appointed as acting premier for two weeks.
This follows the death of Premier Stan Mathabatha’s wife, Maggie, who died on Wednesday morning, 28 June following a short illness. MEC Sekoati was sworn in by Limpopo Judge President, George Phatudi on Thursday, 29 June while Premier Mathabatha is away on bereavement.
Mathabatha will be away until Thursday, 13 July. Details regarding funeral arrangements are not yet available but will be announced once the family has finalised them.
ALSO READ: Limpopo Premier's wife dies!
Meanwhile, condolences continue to pour in for Mathabatha, his family, relatives and friends. President Ramaphosa has also offered his deepest condolences.
President Ramaphosa said his thoughts and those of the national executive as well as the nation are with Premier Mathabatha, his family and the administration of Limpopo in this moment of loss.
“As a community-focused leader, Maggie Mathabatha dedicated herself to the development and dignity of the people of Limpopo through housing opportunities, food security and support to people with disabilities.
He said the late Mathabatha's work ethic was of value to the people of Limpopo.
“Her involvement with communities was a valued and exemplary complement to the work of government led by the Premier and the Provincial Executive. We join the people of Limpopo in this hour of mourning, and in our shared prayer that the soul of Maggie Mathabatha will rest in peace,” said President Ramaphosa.
Limpopo African National Congress spokesman, Jimmy Machaka, said they are saddened by the passing of Maggie Mathabatha.
Machaka said Maggie was a woman of extraordinary character and she displayed dedication. As the patron of Limpopo First Lady Trust since 2013, he added that she exemplified compassion and leadership.
"Her tireless efforts in championing the rights and wellbeing of disadvantaged individuals will be forever remembered,” he said.
Limpopo Democratic Alliance’s caucus leader Desiree van der Walt said she will be remembered for her philanthropy and generous spirit towards disadvantaged communities.
