It is with deep sadness and great shock that the Council and officials of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMB) learnt of the tragic loss of three NMB Councillors in a road accident yesterday. The deceased Councillors, who all three represented the ANC in Council, are Cllrs Mxolisi Gumenge (Ward 26); Phumeza Lose (Ward 55); and Noncedo Ngqondi (Ward 15).
These were young, vibrant and hard-working Councillors, who had a bright future ahead of them and were fully dedicated to their task of transforming Nelson Mandela Bay, and specifically their wards, into a better place for residents. We take comfort from the fact that, despite the fact that their lives were prematurely ended, they had the opportunity to make a difference and eagerly grasped this opportunity and saw real change in their communities.
Our deepest condolences go to their families, friends and constituencies. The Councillors were on their way back from the first contact session this year as part of their studies at the Nelson Mandela Law School at the Fort Hare University's East London campus. They were studying towards certificates in Local Government Law and Public Administration.
The deceased were in a Quantum bus, together with other NMB Councillors, when the vehicle overturned on the stretch of road between Alexandria and Nanaga. Unfortunately, 11 Councillors were also injured in the accident, some seriously. Our thoughts go to the Councillors who were injured in the accident and our fervent prayer is that they will recover fully to re-join us in Council.
A Special Council Meeting will be held tomorrow (Tuesday, 17 January) at 10h00 at the chambers at the Woolboard Exchange to specifically deal with the consequences of the accident.
Visit to accident scene
Executive Mayor Wayile, councillors, church leaders, stakeholders and family members will visit the accident scene tomorrow (Tuesday, January 17) at 13h00. A poignant ceremony will be performed.
Information about the memorial services and funeral arrangements for the deceased Councillors will be announced soon.
Enquiries:
Kupido Baron
Tel: 041 502 0000
Cell: 082 780 2726
