The city of Tshwane is mourning the loss of former mayor Murunwa Makwarela, who passed away on Tuesday morning after a short illness.
Council Speaker Mncedi Ndzwanana confirmed Makwarela’s passing and expressed profound sorrow on behalf of the city, referring to it as a “sad day for the city” and a poignant time for the Office of the Speaker.
“It is also a sad day for the Office of the Speaker. He is my predecessor. I took over from him, and I continue where he left off,” said Ndzwanana.
“I would like to offer my condolences to his family and the residents of Tshwane.”
Mayor sends his condolences
Incumbent mayor Cilliers Brink also offered condolences, acknowledging Makwarela’s service during a challenging period in the city’s political landscape.
“I am saddened to learn of the passing of the former executive mayor of the City of Tshwane, Dr Murunwa Makwarela,” said Brink.
“Dr Makwarela served as executive mayor during a tumultuous period in the city’s politics in March 2023. Prior to his election as mayor, he served as the speaker.”
Makwarela, aged 52 at the time of his death, held various roles, including as a genetic engineer, academic, businessman, and politician.
He took office as mayor of Tshwane on February 28 2023, during a politically tumultuous time.
However, due to controversy and administrative upheaval, his tenure was brief.
Fraudulent rehabilitation certificate
Just days after assuming office, Makwarela was dismissed by the city manager on March 7 2023, due to being declared insolvent in 2016.
Despite being reinstated two days later, it was discovered that the rehabilitation certificate he provided to regain his position was fraudulent.
This led to his resignation on March 10.
Prior to his mayoral role, Makwarela served as the council speaker, representing the Congress of the People as the party’s sole councillor in the municipality.
The DA and other parties led a multi-party coalition during his time in office.
