Henry Jansen: Western Cape Mayor dies from COVID-19

The Mayor of the Langeberg Municipality in the Western Cape has tragically succumbed to the effects of COVID-19, following a two-week stay in hospital. Henry Jansen passed away on Tuesday, leaving behind a wife and children. Western Cape provincial leader Bongokosi Madikizela confirmed the news earlier.

Who is Henry Jansen?

Langeberg, based in Ashton and falling in the Cape Winelands District of the Western Cape, has been run by Henry Jansen for the past four years. The politician was well-liked and had served the region diligently during his time in office. He was a pillar of the local community, who leaves a lasting legacy in the municipality:

• Aged 64, Henry Jansen had been serving in local politics for the last 19 years.
• In 2001, he was elected Deputy Mayor of the Winelands District Municipality.
• In 2016, the DA member became the executive mayor of Langeberg.
• He has been described as a selfless leader who ‘served his constituents with distinction’.

Langeberg: Western Cape Mayor dies of COVID-19

Henry Jansen had initially received treatment for pneumonia, before developing symptoms consistent with COVID-19. The Mayor has become another victim of a pandemic that has claimed 3 502 lives in South Africa so far, after more than 215 000 cases have been identified since March.

Back in April, a charge was brought against Jansen during Level 5 lockdown. He was seen in a picture embracing councillor Niklaas Beginsel, after the former met the latter in Worcester upon his release from prison on bail.

In his tribute to Jansen, Madikizela thanked the public servant for his commitment to the job:

“It is with great sadness that I heard of the passing of Councillor Henry Jansen (64), the Executive Mayor of the Langeberg Municipality earlier today, 7 July of Covid-19. Henry’s death comes as a shock, despite the very real danger of the times we are in.”

“Henry passed away at the Worcester Mediclinic, where he received treatment for pneumonia. I wish to extend my condolences and those of the Western Cape Government, to the family, friends, and colleagues of Henry. He was a friend in the struggle to providing a better life for the people of the Western Cape.”

Bongikosi Madikizela

I am saddened to hear about the news of the passing of Langeberg mayor Henry Jansen. We send our condolences to his family, friends and the residents of Langeberg at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/NhNnLvlhHD

— Premier Alan Winde (@alanwinde) July 7, 2020