The African National Congress (ANC) has expressed its sadness over the passing of former minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson.

Joemat-Pettersson, who passed away on Monday at the age of 59, was lauded by the ANC for her active role in promoting gender equality. 

“The ANC pays tribute to this extraordinary freedom fighter whose sacrifices and commitment to the liberation of her people remain a source of inspiration to many young cadres of our movement,” said ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri.

She held various positions throughout her career in public service including serving as the parliamentary chairperson on the Portfolio Committee on Police. 

She also served as the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries from 2009 to 2014 and as the Minister of Energy from 2014 to 2017.

“All those who love justice, freedom and democracy will surely miss her intellectual sharpness, political maturity and passion for defending those who are vulnerable in society. Her life was a living example that revolutionary leaders are not born, but emerge from experience,” Bhengu-Motsiri said.

At the time of her death, Joemat-Pettersson was accused of soliciting a bribe from the husband of suspended Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane, allegedly to stop the Section 194 inquiry investigation into Mkhwebane's fitness to hold office.