South African MP’s bodyguard dies from COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has struck close to Parliament once more, this time claiming the life of Mncedisi Gwanya, bodyguard to Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) leader Mzwanele Nyhontso.

His death comes after that of Amos Komeni the project administrator in the office of the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Lechesa Tsenoli

COVID-19 hits close to Parliament

Komeni passed away earlier in the week from complications associated with the novel virus.

“It is never easy when this kind of disease moves close to home,” said a statement issued out by Parliament. “Everyone had sincerely hoped that Bro A, as he was fondly known, would conquer and recover from this infection. And therefore, the presiding officers have wished the family strength during this time. With daily increases of infections and death in this country, the presiding officers have also extended their sympathies to the families that have lost their loved ones due to this virus.”

Parliament Presiding Officers

Tsenoli said Komeni was a role model for many younger employees in his office.

“He was a gentleman who always went beyond the call of duty. He was an also activist who dedicated his efforts and time in various community upliftment projects. He served in various structures and was an active member of the South African Communist Party.”

Lechesa Tsenoli, Deputy Speaker of Parliament

South Africa has recorded 123 deaths from COVID-19 after 6 336 confirmed cases of the virus. According to the Department of Health, 58% of the deaths associated with the pandemic are male.

This is after the first case was confirmed in March, with the first death registered just as the country went into lockdown later that month.

“We continue to urge South Africans to put all these families in their thoughts and prayers for strength and healing during this difficult time. We also wish a swift recovery to all infected. Let’s all continue to observe the regulations and always remember to adhere to all hygiene guidelines as part of our lifestyle,” the statement from the Presiding Officers concluded.

Parliament Presiding Officers

National health minister Dr Zweli Mkhize is expected to issue out another update on COVID-19 numbers on Sunday evening.