Deputy Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Bavelile Hlongwa died in a car crash on the N1 from Polokwane yesterday, her department said.
The department’s director-general did not provide details but said in a statement: “It is with great sadness to inform you about the sudden death of Bavelile Hlongwa,Details to be made available as time progresses.”.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has also expressed his condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Deputy Minister Hlongwa and to the families of the four people who died with the Deputy Minister on scene while attempting to assist the passengers involved in another incident.
Hlongwa was appointed as Deputy Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy with effect from 30 May 2019. Prior to her appointment she served as Executive Deputy Chairperson of the National Youth Development Agency.
Death be not proud … We dip our head in mourning the tragic passing on of Comrade Bavelile Hlongwa who was killed together with two other people in a major crash on the N1 highway last night (13 Sep). We wish speedy recovery to those that were injured in the accident. pic.twitter.com/PeOV50PlG9
— Gauteng ANC (@GautengANC) September 14, 2019