The 45-year-old Cjiekella-Lecholo died in hospital in Kimberley on Thursday night.

Motshekga described Cjiekella-Lecholo as “young, energetic, vibrant and an extremely capable person in Government. Very passionate and committed to her work, her sudden passing extremely shocking.”

Motshekga said she had also worked closely with Cjiekella-Lecholothe in the ANC Woman’s League where she had served as the organisations Provincial Chairperson and was nominated for the position of deputy secretary general of the national structure at the recent national conference.

“Comrade Grizelda was undoubtedly one of the most developed and seasoned comrades of our movement,”Motshekga said. “She was a popular, respected politician who was liked by everyone she met, and her bubbly infectious laughter that always filled a room with positivity will be sorely missed.

“Cjiekella-Lecholothe had a resilient passion to better the lives of our people especially, learners of the Northern Cape. She was a true patriot who deeply loved her country, her province the Northern Cape and its people.”

Motshekga sent her condolences to her husband and son and to the province of the Northern Cape.

ANA