By OBAKENG MAJE
28 May 2025- The ANC Chief Whip in the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL), Motlalepula Rosho on Wednesday, described South African actor, Presley Chweneyagae’s death as a monumental loss that has robbed the world of an actor who was the crown jewel of brilliance and excellence associated with the Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sport Foundation. Rosho said that the award winning actor has left an indelible mark on South Africa’s creative landscape.
“We are deeply saddened by the untimely death of the humble but confident gentle giant who represented the best that the North West had produced, mentored by the likes of the late artistic genius and acclaimed playwright Walter Chakela.
“Chweneyagae’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of aspirant South Africans actors. As the ANC Caucus in the NWPL, wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Chweneyagae family, his colleagues, and the countless fans whose lives he touched through his art,” she said.
Rosho further said Chweneyagae, whose illustrious career spanned decades, captivated audiences nationwide with his transformative performances, most notably as the unforgettable Cobra in the ground-breaking soap opera, The River, died on Tuesday at the age of 40. She added that, his masterful portrayals resonated deeply with South Africans from all walks of life, transcending cultural and generational boundaries.
“Through his characters, he became a trusted presence in millions of homes, bringing both entertainment and profound social commentary to our screens. Chweneyagae’s dedication to his craft elevated South African storytelling on both national and international stages, adding that his excellent work and contribution embodied the power of arts to unite, educate, and inspire.
“His extraordinary talent also graced other acclaimed productions, including Tsotsi, which won the Academy Award for Foreign Language Film at the 78th Academy Awards,” said Rosho.
She underscored that the ANC Caucus acknowledges Chweneyagae’s contributions not only as a performer, but as a cultural ambassador who helped shape South Africa’s post-apartheid identity through authentic storytelling and representation. Rosho said Chweneyagae’s latest films include More Than Just a Game, State of Violence, and Africa United.
“He also performed in a play about Solomon Mahlangu, a former MK cadre who was hanged at the age of 22 cementing his status as one of South Africa’s most versatile and compelling performers,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) Caucus Leader in the North West Provincial Legislature, Freddy Sonakile described Chweneyagae as a trailblazer. Sonakile said they extend their heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Presley Chweneyagae, who tragically passed away in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
“His untimely death marks the end of an era for a true trailblazer in the arts. Chweneyagae’s remarkable journey, filled with resilience and talent, will continue to inspire generations.
“Cobrezzy featured in numerous television productions, including The River, where he earned his beloved nickname. In 2005, he took the lead role in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi, which won Best Foreign Film at the Academy Awards. His exceptional work not only entertained but also uplifted and gave hope to countless young artists,” he said.
Sonakile said Chweneyagae was full of life, humble, and passionate about his craft. He said Cobrizi’s passing cuts through the heart like a sword, leaving a void in the creative community and beyond.
The Guardian 