The City of Tshwane Speaker, Mncedi Ndzokwanana, has confirmed the passing of former mayor ,Dr Murunwa Makwarela. The politician who was facing corruption charges died this morning after a short illness.

Ndzokwanana said this was a sad day for the City Of Tshwane. "We have lost an important person, a former Speaker, a former mayor and a councillor of Tshwane- Dr. Makwerela. He lost his life this morning," he confirmed. "It is indeed a sad day for the councillors, staff, communities and the office of the speaker because he is my predecessor." He sent a message of condolences to his family. The family spokesperson, Reverend Abel Dube, said the former mayor died at Leratong Hospital in Kagiso from an undisclosed illness. "Condolences to his wife and two daughters and his entire family.He will truly be missed for his dedication and hard work."

Tshwane mayor Cilliers Brink also expressed his grief. "Dr Makwarela served as executive mayor during a tumultuous period in the City's politics in March 2023. Prior to his election as mayor, he served as the Speaker." Cilliers said, adding that despite the difference in opinion they might have had, he is still saddened. "Whatever differences we might have had and the controversy of his tenure, I am saddened by his passing. I pray that God will comfort his family and bring them peace." 

Makwarela became Tshwane mayor in February 2023 after Randall Williams resigned. His shocking death comes a few weeks after appearing in the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crime Court on charges of fraud, after failing to have his case struck from the court roll. He was charged with two counts of fraud for earning more than R1.4 million without disclosing his insolvency. Makwarela was reported to have lost his house and his cars and allegedly lived on handouts from family and friends before his passing. He was the member of COPE.