/ 28 February 2011

Former ANC MP dies

A 38-year-old former ANC MP, advocate Mamaroba Johannes Malahlela, died in a car accident over the weekend, the Office of the ANC Chief Whip in Parliament said on Monday.

Mohlala was part of a group of young ANC activists deployed to Parliament in 1994, spokesperson Moloto Mothapo said in a statement.

During his tenure, he participated in various parliamentary portfolio committees, including those on communications, justice and constitutional development, foreign affairs and finance.

Malahlela went into politics in the 1980’s through student and youth activism in Mankweng, Limpopo, where he was born.

He served as a member of the Mankweng Youth Congress and was branch chairperson of the ANC Youth League in Ga-Dikgale.

At the University of the North, where he studied law, Malahlela served on the Student Representative Council, holding various positions, including that of treasurer-general.

He also served as a member of the ANC Capricorn regional executive committee and chaired the ANC branch in Manyoro, Limpopo.

“He was a gifted, hard-working, friendly and humble people’s servant, who never shied away from any task, no matter how challenging or difficult it was,” said Mothapo.

“We are confident that the legacy of his immense contribution to the ANC, Parliament and the people will continue to inspire us in our continuing effort to better the lives of all South Africans.”

He said the Office of the Chief Whip extended its heartfelt condolences and sympathy to Malahlela’s family, friends, comrades and colleagues. — Sapa