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The Presiding Officers of Parliament, led by the Speaker of the National Assembly (NA), Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), Mr Amos Masondo, express their profound sorrow at the untimely passing of Member of Parliament, Ms Violet Siwela.
 
Ms Siwela became a Member of the National Assembly in 2019 and at the time of her passing, served as the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Small Business and Powers and Privileges Committee. She brought extensive and diverse experience in the legislative sector and public service, having previously held positions such as Speaker of the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature, MEC for the Departments of Agriculture and Human Settlements, as well as Executive Mayor of the Bushbuckridge Municipality.
 
Ms Siwela's history of public service exemplifies a lifelong dedication to the betterment of South Africa and its people, and today she leaves behind a legacy of compassionate, selfless and tireless service. Throughout her life as a community activist, politician, educator, and legislator, she relentlessly championed the rights and well-being of South Africans, striving for social justice, access to education, healthcare services, food security, and decent housing to meet the essential needs of the people.
 
Said the Presiding Officers: "She was passionate about the economic liberation of the nation's previously marginalised majority and through her leadership of the Portfolio Committee on Small Business, exemplified an unwavering commitment to achieving a significant and transformative shift in the economic landscape. At the time of her passing, she was leading efforts within the Portfolio Committee to draft groundbreaking legislation aimed at empowering small businesses and ensuring their meaningful contribution to economic growth."
 
Parliament conveys its heartfelt condolences to Ms Siwela's family, friends, and comrades on this profound loss of a hardworking and dedicated servant.
 

Issued by the Parliament