Pretoria - Condolences are pouring in for Cheryl Gillwald, the former deputy minister in the departments of justice and correctional services, who died at the weekend after a battle with cancer.
Minister for Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities Noluthando Mayende-Sibiya said that during her service in government, Gillwald played a critical role in spearheading the 16 Days of Activism Campaign for No Violence against Women and Children, which is now being run by her department.
"We express our gratitude to her for the major contribution in making the 16 Days of Activism one of the most recognised campaigns of government, in partnership with civil society," said Mayende-Sibiya.
Gillwald's tireless efforts towards human rights and creating a better life for all, have been noted by the African National Congress Women's League (ANCWL). It said Gillwald gave an example of courage and initiative and inspired bravery and enthusiasm in the hearts of people.
ANCWL spokesperson, Edna Molewa, described Gillwald as a mobilising force among people and a progressive freedom fighter who taught the value of education.
"Her untimely death has robbed us of her immense contribution in consolidating the democratic gains, particularly the total emancipation of women, Gillwald was known by many of us in the ANC as an uncompromising advocate of human rights."
Gillwald, aged 53, served as a Member of Parliament for 12 years from 1994 to 2006.
She was appointed Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development in 1999 and in 2004 she became the Deputy Minister of Correctional Services.
