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The African National Congress (ANC) has learned with sadness about the passing of Mluleki George, a veteran of the anti-apartheid struggle and former Deputy Minister of Defence. He contributed enormously to the downfall of apartheid as well as in the reconstruction and development of our country following the 1994 democratic breakthrough.

George was a founder member of the United Democratic Front (UDF). He was also Executive member of the South African Communist Party (SACP) Border Region in 1990. Following the 1994 elections, George was elected Member of Parliament in the National Assembly where he served until 25 September 2008. Mluleki George was appointed Deputy Minister of Defence from 29 April 2004 until 25 September 2008. He also served as Chairperson of the ANC Amathole Region (Eastern Cape).

George played a key role in the transformation of sport. Among other things, he was founder member of the National Sports Council in 1988 as well as founder and executive member of the National Olympic Committee of South Africa in 1989. He also served as President of National Sports Council and United Border Rugby Union from 1991 to 2001 and Vice President of South African Rugby Football Union (SARFU) from 1993 until 1998.

George served as Treasurer-general of the Congress of the People which was formed in 2008.

The ANC is grateful for his service to the nation and for his role in the creation of a free and democratic South Africa.

We convey our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and all freedom-loving people of South Africa. We hope they will find comfort and strength in the knowledge that the nation shares in their grief.

May his soul rest in peace

Issued by The ANC