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On behalf of the Democratic Alliance, I extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of former KwaZulu-Natal Leader Roger Burrows, who passed away following a lengthy illness.

Roger was not only a stalwart of our party, but one of the most relatable human figures I have ever encountered in public life.

A larger-than-life presence with an infectious warmth, he had an uncanny ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His commitment to democracy and public service spanned decades and was rooted in a belief that politics should serve people, not the other way around.

He typified a generation of great democrats and members of our party who got into politics when the cause for real freedom and fairness seemed hopeless. That took both courage and a deep love of this country.

Roger joined the then Progressive Federal Party and went on to win the Pinetown constituency, an early testament to his tenacity, work ethic, and personal commitment to public service.

Over the course of 25 years in politics, Roger served as a Member of Parliament, a Member of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, and later as a Member of the Executive Council during the coalition government with the IFP in the early 2000s.

In every role, he brought a spirit of cooperation and an unwavering commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa.

Roger stepped down as the DA’s provincial leader in August 2006, but the mark he left on the party, on the province, on our democracy, and on the many people he guided, supported, and inspired remains unmistakable.

His contributions to KwaZulu-Natal, to South Africa, and to the Democratic Alliance will not be forgotten.

In honour of Roger’s memory, we recommit ourselves to the values he lived every day: courage to do what is right, service above self, principled leadership, and respect for our shared future in the province he loved so much and in the country he dutifully served.

We will miss him dearly.

We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family, friends, colleagues, and all whose lives he touched. Our thoughts are with you in this time of loss.

Issued by John Steenhuisen MP - Leader of the Democratic Alliance