…By Larry John for TDPel Media. Marlene van Staden, a prominent leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), passed away on Thursday morning after a long battle with breast cancer.
This news marks a significant loss for the Modimolle-Mookgophong community in Limpopo, as Van Staden was among the first female DA leaders to claim the mayorship from the African National Congress (ANC) in 2016 when the municipalities merged.
The 43-year-old Van Staden had been battling her illness for quite some time, and her unfortunate demise was confirmed by DA leader John Steenhuisen.
In a statement, Steenhuisen expressed his sadness and highlighted Van Staden’s contributions to the DA and her dedication to public service.
He emphasized that she was not only an exceptional mayor who embodied the values and principles of the DA, but also a trailblazing politician who faced numerous challenges while striving to bring effective governance to the Modimolle-Mookgophong municipality.
Throughout her tenure, Van Staden demonstrated her commitment to building strong relationships with civil society organizations to enhance governance and capacity.
Her achievements and unwavering dedication earned her deep love and respect from her party, her province, and her caucus.
She leaves behind a profound legacy that serves as an inspiration to others.
Marlene van Staden is survived by her husband and two young sons.
Steenhuisen conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and friends, acknowledging the immense loss they are experiencing during this difficult time.
Van Staden’s impact as a dedicated public servant, a loving wife and mother, and a trusted friend will endure, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her.
Marlene van Staden was born in Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal, and her family relocated to Vaalwater, Limpopo, in 1989.
She completed her schooling at Hoërskool Nylstroom in Modimolle and pursued a BCom degree with a specialization in tourism management at the University of Pretoria.
Additionally, she held a postgraduate certificate in education and a BCom honors degree in business management, focusing on financial management, from Unisa.
Breast cancer is a devastating disease that affects many individuals and families worldwide.
If you have been affected by this story and require advice or support, resources are available at Breast Cancer Support.
The loss of Marlene van Staden serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by cancer, with nearly 400,000 children being diagnosed annually worldwide.