The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is deeply saddened by the untimely and tragic passing of the mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Cllr Jolidee Matongo. He died at the age of 46 on Saturday evening, 18 September 2021, in a road accident while travelling from Soweto, where he had joined President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Premier of Gauteng, Mr. David Makhura, on a campaign trail for the local government elections.
Cllr Matongo’s tragic death comes just over a month after he became the mayor, following the death of his predecessor, Cllr Geoff Makhubo, in July. Cllr Matongo played an important role in the liberation struggle, having been a political activist since the age of 13, when he actively campaigned against the apartheid regime. He went on to serve as a councillor for many years before being elected as the mayor.
We have lost one of our most promising leaders who had a strong grasp of the socio-economic and political trends in South Africa and beyond. He was among the few dignified, forward-looking and sensible leaders with a devoted sense of service to the people of Johannesburg, Gauteng and South Africa at large.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, his friends and all others who are grieving his untimely death. May his soul rest in peace.
Professor Tshilidzi Marwala
Vice-Chancellor and Principal
University of Johannesburg
Times mentioned in this newsletter refer to the South African time-zone.
