The trade union leader died on Christmas day.
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) lost its General Secretary David Kolekile Sipunzi, who passed away on Christmas Day. In a statement, the union said the cause of death was still unknown and that more details would be communicated soon.
David Sipunzi dedicated his entire life to the service of the mine, construction and energy workers in South Africa until his untimely death. Tributes continue to pour in for the man described by the union federation "as a larger-than-life figure who made an invaluable contribution to the labour sector."
Reads the statement: “He was a firm believer in the rights of the downtrodden and the voice of the voiceless. Comrade David Kolekile Sipunzi will always be remembered for his forthrightness, commitment and dedication in championing the cause of the working class to ensure, protect and safeguard their jobs and conditions of employment.
“He was a trade unionist who did not cease to fight for the rights of the NUM members. His global contribution as one of the Vice Presidents of the World Federation of Trade Unions (WFTU) and his efforts in labour rights will not easily be forgotten.”
