Johannesburg – North West traditional leadership and claims commissioner Joe Mafereka has died, Premier Thandi Modise’s office said on Wednesday.

“Commissioner Mafereka died in hospital the past weekend after a short period of illness,” Modise’s spokesperson Lesiba Kgwele said in a statement.

“Mafereka leaves behind a legacy of selflessness and dedication. His untimely death has robbed the country of a humble but assertive leader who performed his duty with utmost integrity and without fear or favour.”

Kgwele said a backlog of traditional disputes and claims had been cleared under Mafereka’s leadership.

“Commissioner Mafereka has left an indelible mark and will forever be remembered as a fearless warrior, a loyal servant of our people, a skilled negotiator, a unifier, and peacemaker.”

– SAPA