Public Works MEC Jerry Thibedi, whose term of office ends with that of the terms of the current government few weeks from now,  bid farewell to his senior managers.

Described during his farewell function as ``a voice of reason’’, Thibedi told his senior managers, that he does ``not regret the 15 years’’ he spent in government since 1994.

He did not pronounce on his next move after the elections, but there is speculation, Thibedi would not be lost to politics.

Speaking during a private farewell function in Rustenburg today, departmental head, Obakeng Mongale, said Thibedi always,  came across  as ``a very rational and calm’ person.

``His (Thibedi) life has been that of service to him people. We hope he will continue to be a voice of reason and an embodiment of service to the people,’’ Mongale said.

He called on managers to remain  ``a good team’’ and  support whoever would be appointed to succeed Thibedi.

``It is for the country and not for individuals,’’ he said.
Thibedi acknowledged it was indeed:
``…a drastic shift in my life from being an activist to a leader in government.’’
``…but I have learnt a lot from you and that is why managers have such a fundamental responsibility,’’ he said in returning the compliment.

Thibedi described politics as ``a risk one has to take’’.
``It’s a business and it’s like an investment. A good leader will proudly say in the end, there goes my people,’’ Thibedi said.

He called on his senior managers to continue to lead and a shining example and win more awards during the Premiers Excellence Awards.

End

 

Issued by Communication Directorate
Contact Person: Matshube Mfoloe
Contact Number: (018) 387 2447 / 0823054594
E-mail:mmfoloe@nwpg.gov.za