Free State Premier Mxolisi Dukwana has described Education MEC Tate Makgoe – who died in a car accident on Sunday – as a selfless servant.
Addressing the media following the tragic death of Makgoe who hails from Tumahole, Parys, Dukwana described Makgoe as an energetic and politically conscious member of the African National Congress (ANC).
Makgoe and his bodyguard Pule Nkopane were pronounced dead at the scene.
Driver Vuyo Mdi is currently in hospital.
According to Dukwana, Free State emergency crews responded to the accident early Sunday and on arrival, they found a light motor vehicle that had collided with two cows.
“As the provincial government of the Free State, we would like to express our condolences to his family.
“We will also express our condolences to the citizens of the Independent State, in the country as well as to the education sector,” said Dukwana.
READ ALSO: RIP Tate Makgoe: Free State MEC and bodyguard die in car accident
He said Makgoe turned the Free State into a winning province through his work and leadership in the Education department.
“This is a big blow to the Free State province and the whole country.
“Comrade Tade shows that he cares about education and he shows that on your CV you have to be a lifelong learner,” said Dukwana.
Immediately after the media briefing, Dukwana and his friends went to see the family of Nkopane who died.
Meanwhile, the Department of Basic Education also expressed shock at Makgoe’s death.
The department’s minister Angie Motshekga said she was saddened by the tragic death of Makgoe.
“I have no words to express my deepest shock at the news of my friend Tate’s death.
“When I was appointed minister of Basic Education, he was also appointed MEC for Education in the Free State and has been ever since,” Motshekga said in a statement.
He said the province’s success in education can be attributed mainly to Magoe’s leadership, dedication and understanding of the sector.
“I am really saddened by his death. This is heartbreaking and a huge loss for the sector and society as a whole.
“He is hard working, very gifted but humble and respects everyone,” Motshekga said.
Makgoe served in different positions and was MEC for Education, Agriculture and Finance.
The Congress of the People (COPE) also expressed shock and sadness at the death of Makgoe, describing him as a dedicated and loyal servant of the people.
“This is a great loss not only for his family and the Free State Province but also a loss for the entire country.
“Cde Tate Makgoe devoted his whole life to fighting for the freedom of the oppressed masses in this country from an early age and he was a central figure in our struggle in the Free State.
“He spent time in jail for participating in the freedom struggle,” said Cope’s national spokesman, Dennis Bloem.