Lucky Phooko, who took over the Executive Mayor role of the Free State municipality in 2019 from the now MEC of Public Works and Human Settlements in the province, Tshidi Koloi, has reportedly passed away on Monday morning. The exact cause of his death is not yet known. 

There are conflicting reports on the ground regarding his possible hospitalisation shortly before his death, however, Moqaha spokesperson Dika Kheswa tells OFM News the exact details surrounding his death will be confirmed shortly.

Whilst Phooko was seen as a controversial figure, during his tenure he oversaw the return of the Mayoral Games in 2019, four years after they were phased out. In his first interview with OFM News during his first 100 days in office, Phooko said the return of the games, was aimed at  “bringing the community together, also to make sure there are stability and unity.”

At the time of his death, Phooko was the Free State chairperson of the South African National Civic Organisation (Sanco).

This is a developing story.

OFM News/Isaac Mosia and Olebogeng Motse