Parliament's presiding officers announced on Tuesday 3 November the death of Advocate Modibedi Eric Phindela, secretary to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).

In a statement, the presiding officers said they "announce with profound sadness the untimely passing today" of Phindela. NCOP chairperson Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane and National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza extended their condolences to his family.

His career at Parliament

Phindela was secretary to the NCOP, the senior administrative post in the House that represents the provinces. According to Parliament, he acted in the position from March 2009 and was appointed to it with effect from 1 June 2010.

The statement notes that he chaired the 60th meeting of the Society of Clerks-at-the-Table in Cape Town in September 2026.

What we do not yet know

  • The statement does not give a cause of death, and we are not speculating about one.
  • No funeral or memorial arrangements have been announced.
  • Parliament has not said who will act as NCOP secretary in the meantime.

We will update this article when Parliament releases further details.