Wales is mourning the unexpected loss of Hefin David, the Labour Member of the Senedd (MS) for Caerphilly, who died suddenly on Tuesday at the age of 47.
Gwent Police confirmed that a man was found unresponsive at a property in Nelson, Caerphilly county, on the evening of August 12. His death is not being treated as suspicious.
A Career Rooted in Community
Born and raised in Caerphilly, Hefin David entered the Senedd in 2016 after serving as a local councillor. Known for his passionate advocacy, he was one of five Senedd commissioners, responsible for the institution’s day-to-day operations, and gained a reputation for lively, independent contributions to parliamentary debates.
First Minister Eluned Morgan described him as “an outstanding politician, warm and enthusiastic, who always championed his constituents’ causes.” Colleagues across the political spectrum echoed those sentiments, recalling his ability to communicate with humour and sincerity.
Political Leaders Pay Tribute
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called David “a powerful voice for the people of Wales” and praised his dedication to ensuring opportunities and support for all communities.
Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth said the Senedd had lost “passion, energy, and independence of thought,” while Welsh Conservative MS Darren Millar remembered him as a respected figure who “always stood up for his constituents.”
Members of other parties, including Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds and Reform UK MS Laura Anne Jones, also expressed deep personal sadness, describing David as kind, approachable, and committed to public service beyond political divides.
A Personal Loss for Welsh Politics
David’s partner, Vikki Howells, MS for Cynon Valley and Wales’s Minister for Further and Higher Education, is receiving condolences from political colleagues and the wider community.
Legacy and Public Image
Hefin David was widely regarded as a bridge-builder who combined a fierce sense of local pride with a willingness to challenge his own party when he believed it necessary. In both his political and personal interactions, he maintained a mix of principle, humour, and accessibility that made him popular among constituents and colleagues alike.
The Presiding Officer of the Senedd, Elin Jones, summed up the mood in Cardiff Bay: “Hefin was full of life, deeply loyal to his party and community. His absence will be felt in every corner of this institution.”
As Caerphilly and the Welsh Parliament come to terms with his sudden passing, many are reflecting on the lasting mark left by a man whose political voice was as spirited as his commitment to the people he served.
