Former minister Tito Mboweni passed away on Saturday. Picture: Phando Jikelo / Independent Newspapers
SA's Political landscape has come together to mourn the passing of former Reserve Bank Governor and Finance Minister Tito Mboweni.
Across party lines, leaders have paid heartfelt tributes to a man hailed as a champion of democracy, economic stability, and workers’ rights.
Mboweni, who was the first black central bank governor of SA and later became finance minister, died in a Johannesburg hospital at the age of 65 on Saturday after a “short illness”.
A family member, Alto Mboweni together with the Presidency, confirmed his death on Saturday.
“It is with deep sadness that the Mboweni Family announces the passing of Former Reserve Bank Governor and Minister of Finance Tito Titus Mboweni.
“The family is devastated by Governor Mboweni’s passing after a short illness. He died in Johannesburg hospital Saturday night surrounded by his loved ones…The family requests privacy at this difficult time as they come to terms with this enormous loss,” a statement read.
The ANC remembered Mboweni as a “servant of the people” whose life was marked by sacrifice and dedication.
The party highlighted his pivotal role in shaping SA’s economic future, particularly during the transition to democracy.
“Comrade Tito was one of the prime figures in the Government of National Unity (GNU) led by President Nelson Mandela. He was appointed Minister of Labour and became a critical architect of SA’s post-apartheid labour legislation, laying the foundation for collective bargaining and establishing labour courts to uphold worker rights.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Mboweni family, ANC structures, and all South Africans who mourn the loss of this great man. Comrade Tito will be remembered not only for his immense contributions to the economy but also for his unwavering connection to the people he served. His legacy of dedication, innovation, and service will remain a guiding light for generations to come,” ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri said.
The DA praised Mboweni’s “steadfast” opposition to corruption and his commitment to fiscal responsibility. “He was a patriot who stood for what was right, even in challenging times.
“Mboweni was a steadfast opponent of corruption and consistently championed fiscal responsibility. He worked tirelessly to steer the economy toward growth while mitigating the impact of rising debt levels. He will be remembered as a patriot who stood for what was right, even in challenging times, and as a humble and principled man at heart,” the DA stated.
ActionSA’s Herman Mashaba acknowledged Mboweni’s activism, saying he “lived a full life” and was a voice of reason, often pushing back against excesses within his own party.
EFF president Julius Malema recognised Mboweni’s “significant” contributions to SA’s economic policies, despite disagreements on neo-liberal approaches.
He appreciated his openness to intellectual debates and his radical policy ideas, saying he was one of the few that were never corrupted.
The GOOD Party’s Patricia de Lille said Mboweni spoke truth to power and did not mince his words during political debates.
RISE Mzansi’s Songezo Zibi celebrated Mboweni’s legacy as a freedom fighter, minister of labour, and Reserve Bank governor, highlighting his role in reducing inflation and unemployment.
The ANC Veterans League saluted Mboweni’s courage, decisiveness, and incorruptibility, urging party members to emulate his attributes.
These tributes underscore Mboweni’s profound impact on SA’s history and his commitment to the nation’s well-being. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations, the veterans said.
Pretoria News
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