PASSING OF SECRETARY OF PARLIAMENT

14 June 2014

The Office of the ANC Chief Whip is deeply saddened by the passing of the Secretary of Parliament, Michael Coetzee, last night following his brave and courageous battle with cancer.

Although we have known of his poor health for some time, his resilient and tenacious spirit in the face of this terminal disease gave us hope that he would get stronger. He continued to serve even as he battled with the disease, playing a key role in the transition process from the fourth to the fith Parliament and putting in place necessary administrative mechanisms and instruments for the functioning of the new term of Parliament. His sad passing came during the week that he was seen still hard at work, leading the institution's administration in putting final touches on the preparations for the hosting of the first State of the Nation Address of this current term of Parliament next week.

His passing has undoubtedly robbed Parliament and the people of South Africa of a faithful and humble public servant, a highly experienced and diligent administrator, and a committed and passionate leader.

Coetzee possessed extensive experience in legislature administration, having served as Secretary of the Gauteng Legislature for a number of years before joining Parliament in 2002 as its Deputy Secretary. A former African National Congress anti apartheid activist and COSATU-aligned unionist, Coetzee was appointed Secretary of Parliament in 2012.

We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to his wife, son and the rest of the family and friends on this painful loss.

Statement issued by the Office of the ANC Chief Whip, June 14 2014

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