President Jacob Zuma has appointed Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa as the Acting Minister of Public Service and Administration, following Minister Collins Chabane’s passing.

Minister Chabane and his two protectors, Sergeants Lesiba Sekele and Lawrence Lentsoane, died in a vehicle crash on the N1 in Polokwane on Sunday morning. Their car reportedly collided with a truck.

The President has extended his condolences to the staff of the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), who have lost their second Minister in a short space of time.

“The previous Minister of Public Service and Administration, Mr Roy Padayachie, passed away in 2012.

“We are still trying to come to terms with Minister Chabane’s untimely passing and that of his protectors...  Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, relatives, colleagues and indeed the staff of the Department of Public Service and Administration,’’ said President Zuma.

He extended his heartfelt condolences to Minister Chabane’s widow, Mavis Chabane, and also the families of the two protectors.

The Presidency on Sunday said details of the crash are still being gathered.

"We are still in deep shock. We extend our condolences to the Chabane family and the families of Sergeant Sekele and Sergeant Lentsoane. This is a huge loss to the country and a sad day indeed for all of us," the President said.

Selfless leader

North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo has described Minister Chabane as a selfless and devoted leader.

“The untimely death of Minister [Chabane] has not only robbed the country of a selfless and devoted leader but a high-spirited and loyal cadre, whose immense contribution in building a capable state will never be wiped away,”  said the Premier on Sunday.

The Premier also extended his condolences to the families of Minister Chabane’s protectors.

“These families’ loss is indeed a great loss to the country and its growing democracy. We wish the bereaved families strength and comfort during this difficult time. May their souls rest in everlasting peace,” said Premier Mahumapelo.

He encouraged provincial government employees to honour the ideals Minister Chabane tirelessly worked for as the former Minister in the Presidency responsible for Monitoring and Evaluation and as the Minister of Public Service and Administration, where he uncompromisingly promoted good governance in all aspects of the public service.

“We must continue, in memory of this leader, to ensure accurate and complete adherence to the prescripts governing this sector of government, and prioritise monitoring and evaluation as a fundamental and strategic function in the public service.”

The late Minister Chabane will be afforded a special funeral service.