‘It’s a sad day’: Tributes pour in following death of former Tshwane mayor, Makwarela
The City of Tshwane’s council speaker, Mncedi Ndzwanana, confirmed Makwarela's passing on Tuesday morning.
Former City of Tshwane Mayor Dr Murunwa Makwarela. Picture: City of Tshwane
JOHANNESBURG - Tributes are pouring in following news of the passing of former Tshwane mayor, Murunwa Makwarela.
The metro's council Speaker, Mncedi Ndzwanana, confirmed Makwarela's passing on Tuesday morning.
Makwarela has been embroiled in controversy, facing two counts of fraud.
This relates to allegations that he did not disclose that he was insolvent before taking up the position of mayor.
He subsequently used a fake rehabilitation certificate to try and keep his job.
Makwarela was in court last week, where he lost a bid to have his matter struck off the roll.
Ndzwanana said the city had lost an important person.
"It is a sad day for us because we have lost an important person - the former Speaker, the former mayor, and the councillor of Tshwane, Dr Makwarela.
"He has lost his life this morning. It is a sad day for the city, it is a sad day for the Office of the Speaker as well."
At the same time, Johannesburg council Speaker Margaret Arnolds has sent her condolences to Makwarela's family, describing him as a man who dedicated his life to service.