JOHANNESBURG - Tributes continue to pour in for Investigative Journalist Nabeelah Shaikh, who died on Saturday at the age of 34 after a short illness.
Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile described Shaikh as a hardworking journalist known for her integrity and objectivity.
He was speaking in Johannesburg before giving an update on the placement for the 2027 academic year, scholar transport as well as school funding.
"We of course convey our condolences to the family of Nabeelah and the colleagues. She worked with us during our search and seizure operations. She's one of those journalists who have integrity and are very objective, so it's a loss to the media and the country."
Shaikh, who was pregnant at the time of her death, was recently selected to join the eNCA’s newly launched investigations team.
In a statement on Sunday, eMedia said at just 34, Shaikh had already earned a strong reputation as a ‘no-nonsense journalist who was never afraid to go anywhere or ask the toughest questions'
“Nabeelah was respected among her peers and earned multiple awards for her outstanding work.
"Beyond that she was also a loving wife, daughter and devoted mother to a little girl. Nabeelah’s loss will be felt not only within the eMedia family but across the country she loved dearly,” the eMedia statement read.
Deputy Government spokesperson William Baloyi also paid tribute to Shaikh.
“Her work and contribution to journalism formed part of the important role the media plays in informing the public and strengthening democracy.
“Government extends its heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, colleagues and the broader media fraternity during this difficult time,” Baloyi said.