The Democratic Alliance (DA) in KwaZulu-Natal has announced the death of eThekwini Metro councillor Welekazi Sibiya following a short illness.

The party confirmed Sibiya’s death on Sunday, 23 August, with provincial leader Sithembiso Ngema describing her passing as a major loss for the DA and KwaZulu-Natal.

DA mourns Welekazi Sibiya

Ngema said Sibiya had served the party and residents of eThekwini with commitment and had built a reputation for challenging the municipality on issues affecting communities.

He described her as a dedicated young leader whose contribution to public life had been cut short.

“We have lost a colleague, a public representative and, above all, a leader who still had so much to give,” Ngema said.

The party said Sibiya had shown courage in holding the eThekwini administration accountable and remained committed to serving residents.

Ngema said her death was a “tremendous loss” to the DA, eThekwini and KwaZulu-Natal.

Sibiya had risen through DA ranks

Sibiya had become a prominent figure within the DA’s eThekwini structures.

Earlier this year, she contested the position of DA KwaZulu-Natal provincial chairperson against Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson at the party’s provincial congress.

Her work in the metro also included serving in the Economic Development and Planning portfolio. She had previously held the position of deputy whip of the municipality’s Economic Development and Planning Committee.

Sibiya was also vocal on governance and service delivery matters in the city and had previously raised questions over municipal spending and decision-making.

Tributes pour in

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson also paid tribute to Sibiya following news of her death.

“It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of eThekwini Councillor, Welekazi Sibiya after a short illness,” Macpherson said.

He extended condolences to Sibiya’s partner, children and family.

The DA said it would remember Sibiya for her commitment to public service and her determination to hold those in power accountable.