We are shocked and saddened to receive the news of the untimely death of Minister of Public Service and Administration, Collins Chabane and two of his protectors who died in tragic car accident on Sunday morning. Minister Chabane was a political activist, an all rounded leader, a soldier, a dedicated Minister, a musician and more so a loyal servant of his people, who always handled his deployments with total devotion. He served the nation with humility and was one of those who dedicated their lives to fighting for the liberation of this country and served the democratic government with diligence.

I was personally touched by this tragic accident as earlier on Saturday Minister Chabane was with us at the funeral of Chief SDW Nxumalo of Magona in the Vhembe District in Limpopo, where we were part of the delegation from the Nxumalo family in KwaZulu-Natal attending the funeral. Minister Chabane spoke on behalf of government in that funeral because he had worked closely with the late Inkosi Nxumalo for many years. It was therefore shocking indeed when we woke up to learn of the tragedy.

Death has robbed us of a cadre whose conduct and actions always epitomised the true characteristics of a selfless freedom fighter. Our hero has fallen and it is now up to us to pick up the spear and forge ahead in fulfilling the dream of creating a better life for all the people of South Africa, the vision that Collins Chabane dedicated his life to making a reality.

On behalf of eThekwini Municipality and the people of Durban we express our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, President Jacob Zuma, his Cabinet colleagues, the African National Congress, the alliance and the entire nation for this loss. Our thoughts are also with the families of Sergeant Lesiba Sekele and Sergeant Lawrence Lentsoane during this time of sorrow.

May their souls rest in peace!

Cllr James Nxumalo

Mayor eThekwini Municipality

Please call Sthembiso Mshengu, Mayoral Spokesperson (0729261419/0833788743).

For more information contact Thabo Mofokeng on 031 311 4820 or 082 731 7456 or email:thabo1.mofokeng@durban.gov.za or Gugu Mbonambi on 0313114855 or email:gugu.mbonambi@durban.gov.za

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