The Presidency has announced the passing of Ronnie Mamoepa, the spokesperson for Deputy President, Cyril Ramaphosa.
In a statement the Presidency said that Mamoepa passed away in Pretoria late Saturday night.
“Mr Mamoepa (56), a former political prisoner and member of the Gauteng provincial legislature, was a highly regarded and accomplished public servant and veteran communicator who served the African National Congress and various departments in government with distinction,” the Presidency said.
"This is a great loss to me personally, to The Presidency and government at large," said Deputy President Ramaphosa.
"However, our thoughts are firstly and foremost with Ronnie's wife, Audrey, his children and his siblings. I offer my sincere condolences to Ronnie's relatives, friends, comrades and colleagues who have suffered the loss of someone who was much loved and respected across our country and beyond. We shall miss him greatly."
Deputy President Ramaphosa, who visited Mr Mamoepa in hospital several times during his illness, expressed his appreciation to the management and staff of Unitas Hospital as well as other medical professionals who attended to Mr Mamoepa for their sustained efforts to make Mr Mamoepa comfortable during his extended illness.
The Presidency said that details of memorial events will be made known as soon as they are finalised with the Mamoepa family.
(Statement: Supplied)