Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni on Thursday described the late Eyewitness News (EWN’s) politics associate Editor, Tshidi Madia, as someone with a strong personality and a remarkable work ethic.
She said the country has been left with a void, following the passing away of the acclaimed journalist on Wednesday.
Madia died at the age of 42 following a short illness.
During her visit to the Madia family in Leondale in Gauteng, Ntshavheni said Madia reported truthfully, critically and constructively, with a focus on nation building.
The Minister conveyed her condolences to the family, adding that Madia was a patriot.
“She would go miles to fight for the country. I’m sure all of us will remember when she fought for the voice of South Africa at the White House in the Oval Office, but she didn’t stop there. She went to Fox [News] and she had an interview there and she was not intimidated by that platform,” Ntshavheni said.
She added that the political journalist was a daughter of South Africa.
“Her support was not bias to government and to the country. She made sure that her message was about the country. She was not intimidated by the office, not intimidated by an issue, she confronted it head-on.
“She was an ordinary girl who came from Limpopo and made a huge impact in her field of work. She also made sure that the story of South Africa is told, whether good or bad, in a manner that is constructive for the country.
“It is a great loss for the country. We have asked God to receive her beautiful soul. We are going to miss her dearly. I know that next week when we do the post-Cab [post-Cabinet media briefing], questions from Tshidi Madia will be missing. It will be the first void we are going to feel,” the Minister explained.
Tributes have been pouring in for the late Eyewitness News Associate Political Editor with the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) saying Madia would be remembered for her professionalism, courage and commitment to telling South Africa’s story.
“During the unfounded allegations made against South Africa about white genocide, she rose above sensationalism to provide clarity and truth to a global audience, ensuring that the world understood the reality of our nation beyond distortion and misinformation,” the GCIS said.
READ | Tributes pour in for political journalist Tshidi Madia
Deputy Preisdent Paul Mashatile has also conveyed his condolences, saying Madia was a consummate professional.
READ | Deputy President honours renowned, late journalist Tshidi Madia
–SAnews.gov.za
