Parliament shocked and saddened by the sudden passing-on of veteran actor and activist, Mr. Patrick Shai
The Presiding Officers of Parliament have learned with shock and disbelief the passing-on of one of the foremost and celebrated thespians of our era, Mr. Patrick Shai. According to the statement released by the family, the veteran actor passed away on Saturday morning.
The National Assembly Speaker, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, and the National Council of Provinces Chairperson, Mr. Amos Masondo, described Shai as a role model par-excellence. “Shai was not just an artist; he was a legend, an inspiring figure beyond the arts fraternity, a changemaker, an exemplary leader and a true activist and advocate against gender-based violence”, they said. “We are gutted and bitterly saddened by the loss of such a titanic and incomparable talent, an outstanding human being with a humble personality”, said the Presiding Officers.
Through his organization, Khulumandoda, Mr. Shai partnered with Parliament in its National Men’s Parliament initiative, which brought together about 250 men and boys from across the country to engage them to become agents of change and integral partners in the prevention of and response in tackling the spread of HIV, Gender-Based Violence and Femicide and other social ills. “South Africa has lost an extraordinary human being whose role, unrivalled talent and outstanding service to society can never be replaced. May his soul rest peacefully”, they concluded.
The Presiding Officers are even more sorry for the pain his family, his wife and children, are enduring at this moment, and wish them strength.
Enquiries:
Moloto Mothapo
Cell: 082 370 6930
