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Mustapha Murudker, former ANC Ward 48 councillor and community leader, is remembered for decades of service to youth development, activism and upliftment in Athlone and Rylands.
By YASEEN BARDIEN
MUSTAPHA Murudker’s life was defined by service – to his community, to youth development, to political activism and to Islam. Whether as a ward councillor, businessman, mentor or family man, he consistently placed the needs of others before his own, leaving behind a legacy rooted in upliftment and principled leadership.
On Tuesday, January 27, the community gathered to honour the life of the former African National Congress (ANC) member and business leader. The memorial, held at Ghousia Manzil in Rylands, was marked by deep respect, reflecting a life devoted to uplifting others and strengthening the communities he served.
Born on August 27, 1948, Murudker grew up in Rylands after his family moved there in 1963. He was the second eldest of eight children.
A passionate motor enthusiast, Murudker was known for his love of cars. He started working on Volkswagen Beetle engines. Thereafter, he opened Murway Motors in 1974 with his younger brothers, Ebrahim, Hassan and Suleiman, in Klipfontein Road, Rylands Estate.
His interest soon evolved into competitive racing, plying his trade for over 25 years at the top level of motor rallying. He won the 1989 Western Province Rally Championship, showcasing true determination and skill. He later served on the board of directors of Motorsport South Africa, where he was regarded as both a mentor and pioneer in the racing scene in the country.
He was a devoted family man while remaining deeply involved in solving problems in his community. He had a particular concern for the underprivileged. This concern led to a strong commitment to youth development, trying in earnest to keep children off the streets, where they could be drawn into drugs or gangsterism.
‘Mustapha was a humble servant of our people, dedicated to equality and justice. His selfless service will be remembered as his legacy,’ said Majid Mowzer, a former colleague of Murudker.
Murudker became involved with the African National Congress (ANC) in the 1980s, before becoming an official member in the early 1990s. Through his commitment to the ANC, he later served as a councillor, representing Ward 48, which covers Athlone and other surrounding areas.
His time as ward councillor was widely regarded as positive. He was recognised as a grounded and dedicated activist, generous in both his time and resources as he constantly sought ways to uplift the downtrodden.
Always at the forefront of social issues, Murudker never shied away from challenges; instead, he confronted them head-on. He encouraged young people to pursue activism, demonstrating his understanding of the urgent need for transformation in South Africa.
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One example of his impact was on ANC Leader of the Opposition in the Western Cape Legislature, Muhammad Khalid Sayed. In paying tribute to Murudker, Sayed highlighted the impact the former had had on his career. Sayed said he got to know Murudker during his time as ward councillor.
‘He was a dedicated and grounded activist, always willing to give, to uplift the poor and downtrodden,’ said Sayed.
‘He was somebody who I could personally attest to having encouraged young people. He encouraged me, in my activism, to be where I am today.’
Sayed added that Murudker ‘embodied the true values of an ANC cadre; values which the movement needs more than ever now.’
He was deeply committed to serving Islam, being a founding member of the South African Hajj and Umrah Council (SAHUC), where he later served as deputy president, contributing significantly to the Hajj facilitation process. He also played an important role in the Muslim Assembly, serving as one of its members.
Additionally, he and several other businessmen were instrumental in the development of Vangate Mall. He was the chairman of the consortium behind the project, Vangate Development Company (VDC). The mall was awarded top honours for innovative excellence in the retail property category at the SAPOA awards in 2005. Murudker was also involved in RDP housing development in Eerste River.
His passing on December 5, 2025, carried added significance for those closest to him, as it is also the same day Nelson Mandela passed away – a coincidence those close to him view as symbolic.
Murudker will be remembered as a remarkable leader and a true gentleman who always sought to help others before himself.
