Days before the local-government elections (LGE) the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Stellenbosch mourns the loss of one of its councillors.

Ward 2 councillor (Franschhoek) Wilhelmina “Minnie” Petersen, who was born and raised in Franschhoek, passed away this week. Petersen became a full-time councillor for Stellenbosch in 2016.

Before joining council Petersen, who completed her matric at 48, worked at various institutions, with a history that included being an ECD teacher and a qualified social auxiliary worker.

At Stellenbosch Municipality she served as Chief Whip from 2016 to 2018, and was Speaker of Council between 2018 and 2020, elected after the resignation of Donovan Joubert. Petersen was also Deputy Mayor of the City of Oaks in 2020.

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Versatile politician

In Stellenbosch Petersen also served as Deputy Mayor to former Mayor Gesie van Deventer, part of the municipality’s top structure, which historically was entirely made up of women then.

At the time of her election Petersen said it was a privilege and would continue to work hard as part of a committed team that was improving broader Stellenbosch.

She described herself as passionate about service delivery and community upliftment was always close to her heart and also served on the council for the Cape Winelands District Municipality.

The Stellenbosch Municipality paid tribute to the councillor stating: “Councillor Petersen was a familiar and respected figure in our communities for many years, serving with dedication and commitment and championing the needs, concerns and priorities of the residents she represented.

‘A great loss’

“Throughout her years in Council, she served in several important leadership roles, including as a Mayoral Committee Member across various portfolios, Speaker of Council and Deputy Mayor. Her contribution to local government and her commitment to her communities have left a lasting legacy,” the municipality stated.

Stellenbosch DA extended its heartfelt condolences to Petersen’s family, friends and colleagues on Thursday 29 October.

“My heartfelt condolences, it is a great loss for our constituency,” Stellenbosch Mayor and DA colleague Jeremy Fasser said. “We remember Cllr Minnie Petersen for her dedication to her community and the massive role she played. May our Heavenly father be with her family and loved one’s in this difficult time.”

Petersen was her party’s candidate for the same ward in the upcoming LGE.