Johannesburg – The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) regional Chairperson of the KwaZulu-Natal Region Phakama Kheswa has died.
Announcing Khewa’s passing on Monday, (24 February 2025), NUMSA said: “He was born on the 16th of July 1960 and sadly he passed away on 21 February 2025”.
The union added: “Comrade Kheswa was a disciplined cadre of the workers’ struggle, a shop steward, a unifier, a negotiator, a working-class leader, the unrelenting and staunch defender of workers, and a trade union activist par excellence.
“NUMSA lowers its banners to mourn the huge loss of this fearless leader.
“We lower our revolutionary red flag in respect and in honour of Comrade Kheswa, who was an outstanding loyal senior cadre of NUMSA and a veteran of our working-class movement.
“We salute you comrade Kheswa and we can only say there is no sun that rises, that does not set.”
The union said “our only task” is to pick up the spear and soldier on.
NUMSA General Secretary Irvin Jim said: “On behalf of the National Office Bearers, the Central Committee, and all our organisational structures, the leadership of the union passes its deepest and most sincere condolences to his family, friends, and children.
Lala ngoxolo Comrade Kheswa.
“You ran your race well and your impact will not be forgotten.”
