African National Congress (ANC) Deputy President Paul Mashatile will deliver the eulogy at the funeral service of former Gauteng Health MEC Brian Hlongwa on Wednesday morning.

Hlongwa passed away last week following a short illness.

Pay their final respects

The funeral service will take place at the Walter Sisulu Hall in Randburg, Johannesburg, where family members, comrades and government officials are expected to gather to pay their final respects.

The ANC has described Hlongwa as a committed cadre and a true patriot who dedicated his life to public service.

Paying tribute, the party’s First Deputy Secretary-General Nomvula Mokonyane said Hlongwa was deeply committed to the values and principles of the movement.

“Indeed, we have lost a member. We’ve lost a person who was a true patriot, loved the people of South Africa, respected the rule of law, and most importantly, believed in what the African National Congress stands for,” Mokonyane said.

Key role

Brian Hlongwa served in various leadership roles within the ANC and government, most notably as Gauteng MEC for Health, where he played a key role in the province’s health administration.

His passing marks the loss of a long-serving public servant whose contribution to the ANC and the country is being remembered by colleagues and supporters alike.