The African National Congress (ANC) joins all its structures throughout the country and the people of KwaZulu-Natal in mourning the sudden passing of Comrade Ricardo Njabulo “Mvelase” Mthembu who reportedly succumbed to COVID 19 complications.
Mvelase passed on the 8th of July 2020 and was a member of the ANC Provincial Executive Committee in KwaZulu-Natal serving as Provincial Spokesperson.
Mvelase gave his whole energy and time to the work of the African National Congress; serving the people of KwaZulu-Natal with great distinction.
Mvelase will be remembered for working tirelessly to build ANC structures in the Ilembe areas at the time when it was volatile, violent and not fashionable to do so – a true epitome of revolutionary discipline and dedication.
Mvelase previously served the ANC in Greater KwaDukuza Region now General Gizenga Mpanza as Chairperson and Secretary respectively.
In 2010, Mvelase an accomplished product of the youth movement, headed the Regional Elections Team (RET), which led to the overwhelming victory of the ANC in 2011 Local Government Elections. After the local government elections of 2011, Mvelase was elected as the Mayor of KwaDukuza Local Municipality.
After the 2019 general elections, he was deployed to the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature.
In his honor and memory, we urge all our comrades and the rest of society to play their part and help intensify the war on the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mvelase will be laid to rest in accordance with COVID 19 regulations. The funeral is expected to be attended by amongst others close family members and ANC Provincial Officials.
We join the African National Congress in KwaZulu-Natal in conveying deepest condolences to Comrade Ricardo “Mvelase” Mthembu’s wife, kids, mother and the entire family for such a devastating and deeply painful loss.
Farewell Ngoze, Mvelase!! dear son of the African National Congress.
The struggle continues!
Victory is inevitable!
END
ISSUED BY THE AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS
Enquiries:
Pule Mabe
National Spokesperson
071 623 4975
