Mzansi Mourns Again: Former Labour Minister Membathisi Mdladlana Dies Days After Tito Mboweni

Mzansi Mourns Again: Former Labour Minister Membathisi Mdladlana Dies Days After Tito Mboweni

South Africa is once again in mourning, just days after the death of former Labour Minister Tito Mboweni, with the news that another former Minister of Labour, Membathisi Mdladlana, has died at the age of 72.

The SABC confirmed the tragic development on its verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday afternoon. At the time of reporting, details surrounding Mdladlana’s death were still unclear.

Also read: Tito Mboweni Was Killed: Nota Baloyi Fuels Conspiracy Theories Over Ex-Minister’s Death

Membathisi Mdladlana Dies Days After Tito Mboweni Sparking Theories

After the announcement, South Africans began sharing their condolences and paying their respects to Mdladlana. His death has sparked conspiracy theories, especially considering the close timing of his passing with that of Mboweni, who also once served as Labour Minister. Here are some of the reactions from X users:

@ZiyaMadlakes:

May his soul rest in peace. Ma 2000 won’t know him

@fulungwana:

Two former labour ministers gone in less than 1 week. Abasebenzi nise kakeni. 🫥

@IThink34Iam:

To the people asking who he was – he was this guy:
>Labour Minister Membathisi Mdladlana has dismissed as “mischievous and devoid of all truth” reports that his director general Jimmy Manyi was appointed against his wishes, insisting that he was the “best candidate” for the job.

@cetshwayo10:

The former working class leader who never sold out workers, rest in eternal peace cde

@The_WorldofOurs:

💔💔💔 these freedom fighters are departing now. Cant they all have one trip to Robben Island, take photos and share few stories or write some book before they leave us with no goodbye? @MbalulaFikile @MYANC

Also read: Tito Mboweni’s Nyatsi Mourns Him With Heartfelt Tribute

Mdladlana’s Legacy in South African Politics

Membathisi Mdladlana was a key figure in shaping South Africa’s democratic landscape. He was instrumental in drafting the Bill of Rights and became a Member of Parliament in 1994. He held several influential political positions, including Minister of Labour, a role he was appointed to by President Nelson Mandela in 1998. Later, Mdladlana served as South Africa’s Ambassador to Burundi and High Commissioner to Canada.