President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday expressed his sadness following the passing away of ANC veteran Dr Zola Skweyiya.

The 75-year-old passed away after a period of hospitalisation. 

In a statement from the Presidency Ramaphosa said Skweyiya served South Africa with great passion and distinction during his time as a Cabinet Minister and as High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.

“Dr Skweyiya’s endearing engagement and his contribution to our society - especially his role as the first Minister to lead the Public Service in a democratic South Africa - will be greatly missed,” Ramaphosa said.

He served as Public Service and Administration Minister from 1994 to 1999 and later as Social Development Minister before retiring as a Member of Parliament in 2009.