Deputy Speaker, the ACDP learned with sadness of the death of former Minister for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Mr Sicelo Shiceka, who passed away after a long illness on Monday, 30 April 2012. The 45-year-old parliamentarian will be remembered for his work done on the Local Government: Municipal Systems Bill to ensure that qualifications and merit would mean more than political attachments.
Mr Shiceka approached tasks with dedication and great energy and had a reputation of being a hardworking Cabinet Minister. He had a strong grasp of local government and it was under his leadership that a new turnaround strategy and audits into municipalities were done. On behalf of the ACDP, I wish to express our sincere and heartfelt condolences to Sicelo Shiceka's family, friends and colleagues. You are in our thoughts and prayers. [Applause.]