President Jacob Zuma and Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa have expressed sadness at the death of Mr Ronnie Mamoepa, who passed away in Pretoria late Saturday night. He was 56.
Photo from GCIS
The President and Deputy President conveyed their
sincere condolences to Mamoepa's immediate and extended family, comrades,
friends and colleagues.
Mamoepa, a former political prisoner and member of the Gauteng provincial legislature, was a highly regarded and accomplished public servant and veteran communicator who served the African National Congress and various departments in government.
In his latest role, since 2014, Mr Mamoepa served
as Spokesperson for the Deputy President.
"This is a great loss to me personally, to The
Presidency and government at large," said Deputy President Ramaphosa.
"However, our thoughts are firstly and foremost
with Ronnie's wife, Audrey, his children and his siblings. I offer my sincere
condolences to Ronnie's relatives, friends, comrades and colleagues who have
suffered the loss of someone who was much loved and respected across our country
and beyond. We shall miss him greatly," said Ramaphosa.
Deputy President Ramaphosa, who visited Mamoepa in hospital several times during his illness, expressed his appreciation to the management and staff of Unitas Hospital as well as other medical professionals who attended to Mamoepa for their sustained efforts to make him comfortable during his extended illness.
Mamoepa's family has meanwhile confirmed that he passed away after battling complications arising from a stroke he suffered last month. He
was receiving the highest medical care.
They also expressed their appreciation for the close interest taken in Ronnie’s wellbeing by the management and staff of
The Presidency as well as the Minister and Deputy Minister of Health, Drs Aaron
Motsoaledi and Gwen Ramakgopa.
Details of memorial events will
be made known as soon as they are finalised with the Mamoepa family.
