DA Midvaal mourns Oom Freddie

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Messages of condolences have continued to pour in following the passing of Midvaal ward 1 councillor, Freddie Peters, on Sunday at age 78.

Freddie, or Oom Freddie, as he was fondly known by his colleagues and friends, was the very first regional chairperson in the Vaal and paved a path for many more leaders to come.

In 2017, he handed over the chairmanship to Bongani Baloyi after a re-vote following a tie at a highly contested DA Vaal Congress which took place in Boipatong.

Among the roles Freddie held, includes Speaker of council at the Midvaal local municipality from May 2014 to November 2021.

Midvaal mayor Peter Teixeira and DA Midvaal caucus leader described Freddie as a stalwart public representative whose 40-year contribution to South Africa, and more so, to Midvaal, will and can never be forgotten.

Teixeira highlighted that in 1999/2000 when municipal boundaries were set up, Freddie fought for what we know today as Midvaal.

“A shining light in the crumbling expanse that is Gauteng municipalities. This, in no small part, is thanks to Freddie’s fight against a metropolitan municipality that would have swallowed, amongst others, Midvaal.

“His legacy is not only remembered as that of someone who always fought for what was in South Africa’s best interests but also his remarkable strategic mind.

“We fondly remember oom Freddie’s 13-year-long strategies, which he happily completed in 12 years,” he marked.

Fighting for Midvaal residents

Teixeira stated that Oom Freddie might have left this life, but he most certainly will never be forgotten.

He continued; “We would like to express our condolences and wish strength to his wife, Lysette and daughter Anelle in this profoundly difficult time.”

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DA member and Peter Teixeira’s wife, Refilwe, said she has never come across such a fearless leader who remains calm in a face of adversity, bold vision and guide others.

“Today we have the best municipality because Oom Freddie protected, fought and achieved his goal through “Save Midvaal” one of his greatest achievements amongst many,” she added.