By 
BLOEMFONTEIN — The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) in the Free State has officially expressed profound grief over the passing of former Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Mr Thembeni “Skully” Ngxangisa, who died following a period of ill health.
In a formal statement released on Monday, 27 July 2026, the local government association conveyed its deep sympathies and condolences to the Ngxangisa family, friends, political comrades, colleagues, and the broader citizens of the Free State affected by his life and public service.
A Legacy Grounded in Activism and Governance
Mr Ngxangisa is remembered across political and civic circles as a humble, disciplined, and deeply committed activist who devoted his life to the struggle for democratic freedom and improving the living conditions of ordinary South Africans.
During his tenure as CoGTA MEC, Ngxangisa also served as an ex-officio member of the SALGA Free State Provincial Executive Committee. In this role, SALGA noted that he maintained consistent participation and made vital contributions toward strengthening municipal structures, enhancing cooperative governance, and championing community priorities across the province.
Paying personal tribute, SALGA Free State Chairperson Cllr Bongani Lawrence Mathae highlighted Ngxangisa’s long-standing roots in grassroots activism.
“I personally knew Comrade Skully from the liberation struggle days in the streets of Botshabelo,” Cllr Mathae stated. “He was a grounded and fearless activist who understood the pain, hopes and aspirations of our people. Even when he later occupied senior positions in government, he remained accessible, humble and committed to the cause of building better communities. His departure leaves a painful gap, but his contribution to our democracy and to local government will continue to inspire many of us.”
Departure Amid Democratic Renewal
Ngxangisa’s passing comes at a pivotal juncture for local administration, as municipalities across the country gear up for the upcoming local government elections. SALGA emphasized that his institutional memory and vision remained highly valuable, noting that he still had much to offer in reinforcing provincial governance, driving community participation, and advancing ongoing municipal transformation.
Describing him as a dedicated servant leader, SALGA Free State reaffirmed that Ngxangisa’s lifelong commitment to public service and cooperative governance leaves an enduring legacy for the sector and the broader liberation movement.
