Remembering Sharna Fernandez: A legacy of service in the Western Cape

Former Western Cape provincial Speaker and Social Development MEC Sharna Fernandez has been remembered as a dedicated public servant who made a profound impact on the province.

The DA confirmed the news of Fernandez's death on Saturday.

“The DA in the Western Cape mourns the passing of Sharna Fernandez, the former WCPP Speaker and Western Cape Minister of Social Development," said DA Western Cape Leader Tertuis Simmers. 

Fernandez began her journey in community activism in 2011, working alongside local leaders before stepping into politics.

“During this period, Sharna was invited to a political meeting and that made her realise she could further help citizens from political office,” said Simmers.

She was elected to the Western Cape Provincial Parliament in 2014 and appointed Speaker the same year. In 2019, she took up the post of MEC for Social Development, a role in which she became widely known for her advocacy on behalf of vulnerable residents.

“In her tenure as Minister, she fought relentlessly against SASSA’s failures to pay social grants on time or over delays in relief for distressed elderly beneficiaries,” Simmers said.

Fernandez stepped back from politics in 2024, transitioning into real estate while continuing her humanitarian work.

Simmers extended condolences to her loved ones, saying: “Our thoughts and prayers are with her mother, her son, and the rest of her family during this incredibly difficult time. May they find comfort and strength in the days ahead.”

Legislature Speaker Daylin Mitchell said Fernandez was a fierce champion of women’s rights and a campaigner against gender-based violence - both of which were persistent themes during her tenure as Speaker.

“Following the 2019 election she was appointed by the Premier of the Western Cape to his cabinet as the Minister of Social Development - a position she could not have been better suited to.

“Her dedication to helping, uplifting and supporting those less fortunate members of society was a reflection of the personal challenges she had experienced during her life,” said Mitchell. 

“Her love and positive spirit will be missed by all who knew and met her. Her legacy as a former Speaker of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament will be remembered fondly by those who served with and after her, by the employees of the Provincial Parliament and all who came into contact with her.”

Memorial arrangements are expected to be announced in due course.

Cape Times