Alan Pillay, who served in the Presidency under both Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki and later became a trusted personal assistant to Mbeki, has died at the age of 58.

Alan Pillay, a key figure in South Africa's political landscape who served under both Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki, has passed away at the age of 58 following a recent illness.

According to POST, Pillay’s funeral is slated to take place on Saturday in Isipingo, where family, friends, and colleagues will gather to pay their respects to a man who epitomised dedication to public service.

The Thabo Mbeki Foundation expressed its deep sadness and shock at the news of Pillay's passing, honouring him as both a valued colleague and dear friend. In a poignant statement, the Foundation recalled how Pillay demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his duties with humility and professionalism.

“Though he had been unwell for some time, he remained in regular contact with us, always giving us hope that he was on the road to a full recovery,” they noted, underlining his tenacity and hopefulness during his battle with illness.