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Matatiele Local Municipality (MLM) was once again hit by a shocking disappointment of losing its former Mayor, Cllr. Momelezi Mbedla. The former Mayor passed away on the 11th of April 2024 after a short illness leaving a huge void in the local government sphere.
This formidable, giant and beacon of development especially for the people of Matatiele sadly passed away at the age of 45.
Former Mayor Mbedla worked tirelessly for the people of Matatiele during his tenure as a leader and a member of various committees.
He joined the Municipality in 2011 and was deployed as the Chairperson for Infrastructure Services Standing Committee. In September 2013, he was elected as the Mayor of Matatiele Local Municipality. Following the fifth Local Government Elections held in August 2016, Cllr. Mbedla was again tasked with the responsibility to lead Matatiele as a Mayor until 2021. Currently, he was serving at Alfred Nzo District Municipality as the Chairperson for Community Development Services.
Mayor, Cllr. Sonwabile Mngenela expressed his sadness following the passing on of the true servant of the people.
“He is one of the leaders who ensured that every village in Matatiele is connected into the national electrification grid and today we can confirm that his dream was fulfilled. The number of households that have access to electricity according to Census 2022 has increased significantly to an astounding 84,5% compared to the 44,9% recorded in the 2011. He ensured that all systems are in place and during 2014/2015 financial year the Municipality received a clean audit opinion. We have indeed lost a true servant of the people”, said Cllr. Mngenela
The community of Matatiele sends its heartfelt condolences to the family, relatives, friends and colleagues. The official memorial service and funeral details will be communicated in due course. Rest in peace Duna.
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