Issued by: GCIS
26 October 2000
This morning Phakamile 'Parks' Mankahlana passed away peacefully after a long illness.
News of his death has been received with a real sense of sadness amongst his colleagues in Government Communications. For all communicators in government, Parks will be remembered as patriot who committed his life to the task of social transformation.
His unquestionable dedication to his country and its people can be traced back to his involvement in the liberation struggle through democratic youth and student organisations and the broader liberation movement, and his service in government communication structures since 1994. His passion and commitment will continue to inspire our work as we take forward the challenge of providing information to all our people.
The country has lost a lucid communicator, a strategist and a valuable leader in his own right. He was a firm believer in the ability of our country to rid itself of its unjust past and face the future as a nation united in the quest for a better life.
As a spokesperson for two successive Presidents, Parks executed his responsibilities with admirable professionalism and zeal. We commend the example that he set in developing working relations with the media, at a time of transition and robust debate.
We send our condolences to his family and next-of-kin. Parks will be as dearly missed as he was loved in life. The struggle for change continues!
For further information contact:
Joel Netshitenzhe
082-900-0083