Key Takeaways
- Brian Hlongwa, the former Gauteng health MEC, has passed away after an illness
- Hlongwa was accused of corruption and faced charges of fraud, corruption, money laundering, and racketeering
- He was a member of the ANC and served as the party’s chief whip in the Gauteng legislature from 2009 to 2018
- Hlongwa’s trial was scheduled to start in April 2026, but he passed away before it could take place
- The ANC has released a statement mourning his passing and describing him as a "patriot, educator, and combatant to the end"
Introduction to Brian Hlongwa’s Life and Career
Brian Hlongwa, the former Gauteng health MEC, has passed away after an illness. Hlongwa was a prominent figure in the African National Congress (ANC) and served as the health MEC from 2006 to 2009. During his tenure, he was implicated in alleged corrupt and fraudulent dealings worth R1.2bn in the health department. Despite these allegations, Hlongwa remained a member of the ANC and went on to serve as the party’s chief whip in the Gauteng legislature from 2009 to 2018. He resigned from this position under a cloud of controversy after the release of a report by the Special Investigating Unit.
Corruption Allegations and Charges
The allegations of corruption against Hlongwa were serious and far-reaching. The report by the Special Investigating Unit implicated him in alleged corrupt and fraudulent dealings worth R1.2bn in the health department during his tenure as MEC. In 2021, the National Prosecuting Authority formally charged Hlongwa, along with his wife Joeline and six co-accused, on charges of fraud, corruption, money laundering, and an alleged "pattern of racketeering activity" perpetuated against the department. The trial was scheduled to start in April 2026, but Hlongwa passed away before it could take place. The charges against Hlongwa were a significant blow to his reputation and raised questions about the extent of corruption within the ANC.
ANC Response to Hlongwa’s Passing
The ANC has released a statement mourning Hlongwa’s passing and describing him as a "patriot, educator, and combatant to the end". The party’s provincial task team (PTT) praised Hlongwa’s commitment to the ideals of the ANC and the struggle for a united, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, and prosperous South Africa. The statement also highlighted Hlongwa’s role as a manager at the OR Tambo School of Leadership, where he was responsible for political education programs. The ANC’s response to Hlongwa’s passing has been seen as an attempt to rehabilitate his image and downplay the allegations of corruption against him.
Legacy and Impact
Hlongwa’s legacy is complex and multifaceted. On the one hand, he was a dedicated member of the ANC and played a significant role in the party’s structures. He was also a passionate advocate for the ideals of the ANC and worked tirelessly to promote the party’s values. On the other hand, the allegations of corruption against him have tarnished his reputation and raised questions about the extent of corruption within the ANC. The fact that Hlongwa was able to rise through the ranks of the party despite these allegations has also raised concerns about the party’s ability to hold its members accountable for their actions.
Conclusion and Reflection
The passing of Brian Hlongwa is a significant event that has sparked a range of reactions and reflections. While the ANC has mourned his passing and praised his commitment to the party’s ideals, others have raised questions about his legacy and the impact of his actions on the party and the country. The allegations of corruption against Hlongwa are a reminder of the need for accountability and transparency within the ANC and the government. As the party and the country move forward, it is essential to reflect on the lessons of Hlongwa’s life and career and to work towards a more just and equitable society. The trial that was scheduled to take place in 2026 would have provided an opportunity for the truth to come out and for justice to be served, but unfortunately, that will no longer be the case.
