Former Tshwane Mayor Dr. Murunwa Makwarela Passes Away at 52

Dr. Murunwa Makwarela, the former mayor of Tshwane, has passed away at the age of 52. Family spokesman Reverend Dr. Abel Dube confirmed that Dr. Makwarela died in the early hours of April 22, 2024 at Leratong Hospital in Krugersdorp following a short illness.

At the time of his passing, Dr. Makwarela was facing two counts of fraud related to allegations that he failed to disclose his insolvency status and submitted a fake rehabilitation certificate. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) plans to withdraw the case against Makwarela once they receive his death certificate.

Dr. Makwarela served as the mayor of Tshwane from 2016 to 2019. He was named mayor again in February 2023, succeeding Randall Williams, but his tenure was brief due to news that he had been found insolvent in 2016. Dr. Makwarela previously served as council speaker, councillor, and mayor in the capital city.

Tshwane Speaker of Council Cllr Mncedi Ndzwanana paid tribute to Dr. Makwarela, describing him as "an important person who served as a former speaker, mayor, and councilor of Tshwane."

Why this matters: The passing of Dr. Murunwa Makwarela marks the loss of a prominent political figure in Tshwane. His death also raises questions about the fraud charges he was facing and the impact on the city's leadership.

The EFF in Tshwane acknowledged the "dubious actions and fraudulent behaviour" surrounding Makwarela's time in office, while the ANC's Greater Tshwane region extended condolences to his family and the people of Tshwane. Makwarela's family has requested privacy to mourn his sudden passing, and funeral arrangements will be announced in due course. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.

Key Takeaways

• Former Tshwane mayor Murunwa Makwarela, 52, has passed away.
• Makwarela faced 2 fraud charges related to insolvency and fake certificate.
• NPA plans to withdraw case after receiving his death certificate.
• Makwarela served as mayor from 2016-2019, and again in 2023.
• Tshwane officials and political parties have paid tribute to Makwarela.