City saddened by sudden passing of mayor
Even though his role as mayor was short-lived, his legacy will live on forever.
The community is saddened by the unexpected death of the City of Johannesburg Executive Mayor, Councillor Jolidee Matongo, 46, who passed away in a vehicle collision on the Golden Highway in Lenasia on Saturday, September 18.
According to a statement released by Mayoral Communications’ Phindile Chauke, Mayor Matongo was returning from Soweto where he had encouraged voters to register.
He was travelling with two of his VIP protectors at the time of the collision. Both protectors sustained serious injuries. The collision also claimed the life of the driver of a Nissan bakkie who was attempting to avoid hitting a pedestrian, who also died.
Even though his role as mayor was short-lived, his legacy will live on forever. As soon as the news of his passing was made public on the City of Joburg’s Facebook page, the comment section became flooded with sincere messages of condolences.
Elaine Hemero from the Patriotic Alliance wrote:
“Rest in peace comrade, leader, councillor and Honourable Executive Mayor, Jollie Matongo. Your appointment was short-lived but maybe it was meant to be. You have completed your journey and served your purpose. Thank you so much for the empathy and concern you had towards my challenges. I will always respect and honour you as a true leader. I am saddened by your sudden and tragic departure, but only the Lord knows the answers. Rest well comrade, you are in a better place. Condolences to the family and City of Johannesburg.”
Saddened community member, Ngovhela Sibasa wrote:
“This is a shock. We were still expecting a lot from his visionary leadership. May his soul rest in peace. Condolences to his family, relatives and staff at the City.”
Pumla Nompula from Soweto wrote:
“Rest easy Mr Mayor and condolences to your family especially your wife and the kids. May the Lord comfort them and give them strength during this tough time. It shall be well with their souls.”
A wreath-laying ceremony was subsequently held for the beloved mayor on Wednesday, September 22 on the Golden Highway between the R554 and the R557 in Lenasia. After the opening prayer by Captain Seelan Govender, officials had the opportunity to pay tribute by laying their wreaths.
The order of the wreath-laying was as follows:
• Speaker of Council, Councillor Nonceba Melwele
• Chief Whip of Council, Councillor Solomon Mogase
• Chair of Chairs, Councillor Salfina Mulaudzi
• Mrs Matongo and family
• Acting City Manager, Floyd Brink
• Public Safety HoD, Hlula Msimang
• Acting Chief of EMS, Rapulane Monageng
• Acting Chief of JMPD, Angie Mokasi
Many agree that Mayor Matongo portrayed excellent leadership and a great willingness to make the city a better place for its communities. He will be greatly missed by the City, residents, friends and family.
