The Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature (MPL) has sent its deepest condolences to former chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) of South Africa, Ambassador Mninwa Johannes Mahlangu.

Mahlangu, affectionately known as “MJ”, was born in Middelburg on October 8, 1952. The South African government reported he passed away on Sunday, August 24, while on his way to hospital following a brief illness.

According to the MPL, Mahlangu served the people of South Africa with humility and dedication until his retirement. “This servant leadership culminated in Mahlangu being elected as the chairperson of the NCOP.

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As an internationalist, he was recognised as a regional representative to the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, and was subsequently elected as the regional chairperson of the Association,” said the Speaker of the MPL, Makhosazane Masilela.

Masilela said it was therefore no surprise that, post-retirement, he was appointed as an ambassador to the United States of America and later appointed as the High Commissioner to the Republic of Kenya; Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Federal Republic of Somalia; and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Nairobi.

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Masilela indicated that the Legislature is saddened by the untimely passing of Mahlangu, adding that he was a reservoir of knowledge for the legislative sector and a notable internationalist.

“The MPL conveys our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the late Mahlangu.”
Mahlangu was laid to rest on Saturday, September 7.