The Ramaphosa family is mourning the loss of Londani Clayton Ramaphosa, who passed away on December 10, 2025, at the age of 47.
The news, which surfaced during the height of the festive season, was officially confirmed by the Presidency following a wave of social media speculation regarding the identity of the deceased.
Clarification on Familial Ties
The death initially gained widespread attention on December 19, when entertainment blogger Musa Khawula shared an obituary image on X (formerly Twitter). However, the post incorrectly identified Londani as the President’s son, leading to immediate confusion among the public.
Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya swiftly moved to clarify the relationship. He confirmed that Londani was the son of Douglas Ramaphosa, the President’s brother.
“He was the President’s nephew, not his son,” Magwenya clarified, noting that the President’s sons, Andile and Tumelo, are alive.
A Timeline of Events
The sequence of events surrounding the announcement highlights how quickly news—and misinformation—travels in the digital age:
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December 10, 2025: Londani Clayton Ramaphosa passes away.
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December 19, 2025: An obituary is shared online, mislabeling the relationship to the President.
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December 19, 2025: The Presidency confirms the death to Sunday World and provides the correct familial context.
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December 19–20, 2025: Social media platforms are flooded with a mix of condolences and corrections.
Privacy and Public Condolences
Born on November 4, 1978, Londani was 47 years old at the time of his passing. While the Presidency has acknowledged the loss, no cause of death has been disclosed to the public. The family has requested privacy as they navigate this difficult period during a time typically reserved for celebration.
The South African public has responded with a massive outpouring of sympathy. Thousands of messages have been shared across Facebook and X, with many users noting the particular heartbreak of losing a loved one just before the Christmas holidays.
Key Figures Involved
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Cyril Ramaphosa: President of South Africa and uncle of the deceased.
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Londani Clayton Ramaphosa: The deceased individual, aged 47.
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Douglas Ramaphosa: Brother of the President and father of Londani.
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Vincent Magwenya: Presidency spokesperson who provided official clarification.
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Musa Khawula: Entertainment blogger who shared the initial report.
