As tributes pour in following the death of radio personality, Thabiso Sikwane, her family has revealed that it was awaiting post-mortem results to determine the real cause of her death.
The 50-year-old mother, radio personality and author died on Saturday morning.
South Africans learnt of the passing of the former Kaya FM presenter through social media reports on Saturday, with a family statement also confirming her death.
“We are told that her death could have been a cardiac event. But what would have caused it has not been ascertained.
“We await a post mortem that will give everyone clarity because it does not make sense to anyone,” said a heartbroken Thato “Fresh” Sikwane, her ex-husband, on Saturday.
Fellow radio personality, Thami Ngubeni, revealed that she and other colleagues were meant to celebrate Sikwane’s birthday.
“We were supposed to gather to celebrate Thabz’s belated birthday. She had postponed it because she was going on a missionary trip and yesterday we gathered to celebrate her life, but not in the way we had thought we would be. #RIPThabisoSikwane,” she said.
On the same day, South Africans paid tribute too to praise poet, Jessica Mbangeni, who also died on Saturday.
“It is with deep sorrow and profound sadness that we, the family of Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni, announce her passing. Our beloved mother, sister and people's praise poet, Bishop Jessica Mbangeni, has left us to join her ancestors.
“Dr Bishop Jessica was a beacon of light, voice of wisdom, and a source of inspiration to many.
“Her contributions to our community and the world as a praise poet, spiritual leader, and cultural ambassador were immeasurable, and her legacy will live in the hearts of those she touched,” the family said in a statement.
According to media reports, the celebrated poet, who was 47 years old at the time of her death, was rushed to hospital after she fell ill.
Former public protector, Thuli Madonsela, also paid tribute to the two women, saying: “I am deeply saddened by the loss of two more of South Africa’s exceptional gems. Heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of the inimitable Imbongi Jessica Mangeni and seasoned broadcast journalist Thabiso Sikwane. May their souls Rest in Peace.”
Said former assistant of former president Nelson Mandela, Zelda la Grange: “My heart is in pieces. What an enormous shock. I had contact with her a couple of weeks ago. #RIPThabisoSikwane. Sincere condolences DJ Fresh and to your children. Heartbroken for you all.”
The Star