Mpumalanga: The Gert Sibande District is in deep mourning following the sudden passing of two devoted public servants — Cllr Victor Dudley of Gert Sibande District Municipality and Cllr Jabulile Cebile Hildigart Ndebele of Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality. Their deaths, reported on the same day, have left a profound void in local governance and community life across the region.
Cllr Victor Dudley: A Young Leader Committed to Development
The Gert Sibande District Municipality (GSDM) was rocked by the news of the untimely death of Cllr Victor Dudley, a young and full-time Democratic Alliance representative who had served the municipality since November 2021. Known for his energy, insight, and passion for community upliftment, Cllr Dudley served on the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) and the Infrastructure and Technical Services Portfolio Committee.
Speaker of the GSDM Council, Cllr Busisiwe Sekhonde, expressed deep sorrow, calling his death “shocking and heartbreaking.”
“His sudden departure leaves a gap not only in the political landscape of our district but also in the hearts of those who had the privilege of working alongside him,” said Sekhonde.
Cllr Dudley was also known for his active involvement in GSDM sports, where his spirit of unity and camaraderie touched many lives.
“He was not only an outstanding councillor but a vibrant and inspiring figure within our sporting community,” Sekhonde added.
Funeral and memorial arrangements will be announced in due course. GSDM has called on the public to remember Cllr Dudley not just for his political service, but for the warmth and dedication he showed to all.
Cllr Jabulile Ndebele: A Champion for Women and Youth
Meanwhile, in Carolina, the Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality held a heartfelt memorial service at the Town Hall to honour the life of Cllr Jabulile Cebile Hildigart Ndebele, who passed away earlier this week. Serving her second term in council, Cllr Ndebele was celebrated for her radiant personality, fearless advocacy, and remarkable leadership, particularly in empowering women in municipal governance.
As a leading member of the Women’s Caucus, her influence was instrumental in increasing female representation in municipal leadership roles.
“She was the kind of leader who reminded us that politics is about people,” said Executive Mayor Cllr MP Magubane during the memorial. “Her smile brought warmth to meetings, and her spirit brought people together — regardless of political party or background.”
Outside council chambers, Cllr Ndebele was a passionate Orlando Pirates supporter and a community builder who used sport to uplift the youth in Carolina.
“Her passing leaves a deep void in our hearts, but her legacy remains — in every young girl who dares to lead, and every youth who found hope through her efforts,” said a close colleague.
Her funeral service is scheduled for this Saturday at 08h00 at the Carolina Town Hall, with the public invited to attend and celebrate her life.
As the district mourns, both councillors are remembered for their dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to the communities they served. Their absence will be deeply felt, but their legacies will continue to inspire.
Hamba kahle, Mbokodo.
Lala ngoxolo, Cllr Dudley.
You both served with honour.
UPDATE By GSDM:
IN LOVING MEMORY OF CLLR VICTOR DUDLEY
We are saddened by the passing of our beloved Cllr Victor Dudley. His dedication, service, and unwavering commitment to his duties will never be forgotten.
A Memorial Service will be held to honour his life and legacy as follows:
Date: Wednesday, 16 April 2025
Time: 12H00
Venue: Mayors Parlour, GSDM Office Complex.
The Funeral Service will take place as follows:
Date: Saturday, 26 April 2025
Time: 08H00
Venue: Lillian Ngoyi Hall, Secunda
Let us come together to celebrate his life and bid farewell to a young life gone too soon.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
#RIPVictorDudley #HonouringHisLegacy #GoneButNotForgotten
