Former colleagues have paid tribute to the late former deputy speaker Trusty Gina.
They described her as a mother angel whose generosity, political wisdom and willingness to guide others left an enduring mark on those who worked alongside her.
For many of the politicians she encountered along her journey, Gina was more than an experienced legislator.
She was a mentor who took young politicians under her wing, offered counsel when it mattered and remained a trusted advisor even after official working relationships came to an end.
Trusty Gina’s political career was defined by years of parliamentary service including her election as Member of Parliament for Nkilongo in 2003 and her subsequent election as deputy speaker of the House of Assembly.
She also twice assumed the responsibilities of acting speaker, in 2004 and 2006, cementing her experience as a seasoned parliamentarian, and served in the eighth and ninth Parliaments.
Former minister of tourism and environmental affairs Macford Sibandze described Gina as one of the people who groomed him politically. He said her influence extended far beyond the demands of public office.
Sibandze said Gina’s positive work ethic and commitment to the country’s development brought them closer, eventually building a friendship that extended into their respective family lives.
He recalled how she would advise him on how to position and grow the ministry, drawing from her extensive political experience.
Even after he ceased being a minister and returned to Parliament as an MP, he said Gina continued to offer guidance.
Land Management Board Chairperson Petros Mavimbela also remembered Gina for her contribution to Parliament during the ninth Parliament, where she served as deputy speaker.
Her parliamentary journey which included service as a Member of Parliament before assuming the deputy speaker position gave her considerable experience in the country’s political and legislative affairs.
Mavimbela recalled that Gina diligently held the fort for an extended period when Parliament was without a speaker, demonstrating the leadership and responsibility expected of her office.
He further remembered her appointment to represent the country at the Pan-African Parliament, where she completed her term and, according to him continued to demonstrate leadership and integrity. Mavimbela extended his condolences to Gina’s family, former members of the ninth Parliament and everyone affected by her passing.
Former deputy speaker Trusty Gina died at Mbabane Government Hospital on Friday following a prolonged illness. She had reportedly been in and out of hospital over a period of time, receiving medical attention both locally and outside the country.
She is expected to be laid to rest at her home in Mndobandoba on Saturday, following a memorial service scheduled for Friday at a venue yet to be confirmed.
As preparations for her burial continue, tributes from former colleagues reflect the loss of a woman remembered for offering guidance, friendship and political mentorship.
For those she helped navigate the demanding world of politics, Trusty Gina was not simply a former MP or deputy speaker, but she was a mother figure, a mentor and in their words, a mother angel whose counsel will be deeply missed.
