Former South African Labour Minister Membathisi Mdladlana has died at the age of 72. His family confirmed his passing, stating that he died peacefully on Friday morning at his home in Cape Town.
Mdladlana, a long-serving member of the African National Congress (ANC), was part of South Africa’s first-ever democratic Parliament in 1994. After four years as a Member of Parliament, he was appointed Labour Minister by both President Nelson Mandela and later President Thabo Mbeki, serving in the role until 2009.
Family spokesperson Mayibuye Sokupa said Mdladlana leaves behind seven children and numerous grandchildren. “No significant illness to mention—it was mainly due to old age. He had some breathing problems, but it was a short illness. He passed away peacefully after breakfast while watching TV,” Sokupa shared.
Mdladlana will be remembered as a staunch trade unionist who advocated for workers’ rights both during and after apartheid. “He fought for the downtrodden and worked tirelessly for the betterment of the working class. From his days with SADTU (South African Democratic Teachers Union) to his tenure as Labour Minister, he sought to bridge the gap between employers and employees, fostering healthy working relationships,” Sokupa added.
