By Thulane Madalane
Tšatane: The passing of EFF Councillor Berlinah Maakgaswane Tshehla has prompted a wave of heartfelt tributes from colleagues and community members alike. The Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality and the EFF mourn the loss of a dedicated public servant, who passed away on July 29, 2025, after a short illness, at the age of 43.
Gift Nape Mashaba, Secretary of EFF Sekhukhune Region, shared personal reflections on Tshehla’s character and work ethic. “Fighter Berlinah Tshehla was a disciplined member whose contributions were undeniable,” Mashaba stated. “I had the privilege of knowing and working closely with her during the 2021 local government elections. She was a reserved individual who spoke volumes through her actions. After the elections, she took her position as a PR councillor seriously and performed her duties with integrity.”
Mashaba’s sorrow was palpable as he recalled their first caucus meeting. “I told the caucus that we needed to make the most of our term, but now she is gone, and I feel like a shepherd who failed to fulfill his promise.” He highlighted Tshehla’s commitment to her community, noting her efforts in refurbishing an old borehole in Tsatane, which provided residents with much-needed drinking water.
EFF Secretary General Marshall Dhlamini also expressed his condolences, stating, “It is with a deep sense of grief that we inform the leadership collective of the passing of Fighter Berlinah Maakgaswane Tshehla. Her untimely departure is a significant loss to our movement and the community she served. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and fellow fighters.”
On Saturday the Municipality paid its last respects at a funeral service in Tšatane Village, attended by various community leaders and municipal officials. Cllr. Tabane Peter Rankoe, representing Mayor Cllr. Merah Mahlase, conveyed a message of support to the Tshehla family.
“Councillor Tshehla was remembered as a soft-spoken and fearless leader who was deeply committed to her constituents,” Rankoe remarked. “Her contributions to the development of local governance and community-driven initiatives will always be cherished.”
