UDM mourns the passing of Mkululi Mcotsho, Member of the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature
Statement by President of the United Democratic Movement, Deputy Minister Bantu Holomisa, MP
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mr Mkululi Mcotsho, our Member of the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature and a valued member of the United Democratic Movement (UDM).
We extend our deepest condolences to the Mcotsho family, his relatives, friends, colleagues and all those whose lives he touched.
Mr Mcotsho came to the UDM with considerable experience in local government and public service. Before joining our ranks, he had served the people of Mbhashe Local Municipality in several capacities, including as Speaker of the Municipal Council and in responsibilities relating to infrastructure and service delivery.
His experience, knowledge of local government and understanding of the everyday challenges facing communities made him a valuable addition to the UDM.
Following the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, Mr Mcotsho took his place in the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature as a UDM representative. He continued his public service through the Legislature's oversight and portfolio structures, contributing to the work of holding government accountable and ensuring that the concerns of ordinary communities were heard.
For the UDM, his election to the Eastern Cape Legislature represented more than the gaining of a seat. We had entrusted him with carrying the voice of ordinary people into the provincial lawmaking and oversight process, and he accepted that responsibility with commitment.
His passing comes at a particularly painful time for his family, which has already endured great personal loss in recent months. We therefore hold them especially close in our thoughts as they confront yet another bereavement.
South African politics is too often remembered only through its most prominent national figures. Yet our democracy depends equally upon men and women who spend years working at municipal and provincial level, dealing directly with the problems experienced by communities and giving practical expression to public service.
Mr Mcotsho belonged to that tradition.
The UDM has lost a colleague and public representative. The Eastern Cape has lost an experienced servant of the people. Most importantly, his family has lost a loved one whose place in their lives can never be replaced.
May they find strength and comfort in the knowledge that his contribution to public life and to the communities he served will be remembered.
May his rest in peace.
