Former Mnquma Local Municipality mayor, struggle stalwart and veteran politician Ndyebo Hutchinson Skelenge has died.
Skelenge died in the early hours of Freedom Day, April 27, a day after he was admitted at the Butterworth hospital after complaining of chest pains. He was 70 year old.
He was elected the first deputy mayor of the Mnquma Council after the first local government elections in 2000.
Skelenge, popularly known by his clan name ‘Mawawa’, was then elected to the position of acting executive mayor, in which he served between 2001 until 2006. He is also hailed as having played a very instrumental role in shaping the politics of the Mnquma Council and has served in various capacities, including as portfolio head for local economic development and planning and, again, as executive mayor in March 2018 until July 2018.
After that he went on to serve as a PR Councillor at Amathole District Municipality until October 2021.
Family spokesperson and current Mnquma municipal manager, Silumko Mahlasela, said the entire family was devastated by the loss of a “great tree”.
“A great tree has fallen. As the entire Mpinga clan, he was our pride and hero. He has represented our clan exceptionally well in his contribution to the struggle for freedom and we are extremely proud of the legacy he leaves behind. He was a giant soldier who has left an indelible mark in the history of our struggle against oppression. He fought tirelessly against the Bantustan system of the Transkei right up until the dawn of democracy in 1994.
“We remember a dedicated husband to his wife and a father to his children,” said Mahlasela.
Mnquma council speake,r Zibuthe Mnqwazi, also conveyed his condolences to the Skelenge family on behalf of the municipal council.
“Mnquma Local Municipality council is saddened and deeply aggrieved at the sudden passing of our former executive mayor. We send our condolences to his family, friends, comrades and colleagues.
“Our country has lost a great patriot who dedicated his life to the prioritisation of the betterment of others,” said Mnqwazi.
He is survived by his wife Nosiseko, children and siblings.
Funeral details have not yet been finalised pending consultation with the whole family.
