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13 May, 2025
UDESMO mourns the tragic loss of Banoyolo Krakra
Statement by Lucia Matomane, UDESMO Eastern Cape Provincial Chairperson The United Democratic Students’ Movement (UDESMO) expresses deep sorrow and outrage at the murder of Banoyolo Krakra, a beloved student at Lovedale TVET College and a proud member of our student community. Banoyolo was a committed young woman who was pursuing an NCV Level 2 qualification in Generic Management. She showed remarkable responsibility and compassion by using her NSFAS funds to support her family before returning to her studies. Her brutal killing is a cruel and senseless act that has robbed her family, community, and our country of a promising life and future leader. We send our heartfelt condolences to the Krakra family and to all who knew and loved Banoyolo. Their pain is also our pain. UDESMO stands in solidarity with them during this time of unimaginable grief and we will support their call for justice every step of the way. This tragedy is yet another painful reminder of the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide crisis that continues to destroy lives, particularly those of young women. We call on the South African Police Service to leave no stone unturned in their investigation and to ensure that those responsible are swiftly brought to justice. UDESMO also calls on Lovedale TVET College to prioritise student safety and to ensure that adequate trauma counselling is made available to Banoyolo’s classmates who are reeling from this devastating loss. Although Banoyolo was not found on campus, her body was discovered on Cambridge Street in Qonce, near a local tavern, by a patrolling security officer. She had suffered stab wounds to her upper body. This tragic incident highlights the broader safety concerns affecting students beyond campus boundaries and demands urgent attention from institutions and law enforcement alike. Banoyolo’s life mattered. Her memory will live on in our commitment to fight for safer campuses and communities. May her soul rest in peace. We will never forget her.
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06 May, 2025
UDM Eastern Cape mourns the loss of UDM Cllr Thobile Gidigidi
Statement by Bulelani Bobotyane, Provincial Secretary of the UDM in the Eastern Cape It is with profound sorrow that we have learned of the untimely passing of our comrade and leader, Councillor Thobile Benjamin Gidigidi, affectionately known to many as Sir Gidz. On behalf of the United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the Eastern Cape, I extend our deepest condolences to the Gidigidi family, friends, and the broader community of Mnquma. Councillor Gidigidi served the people of Mnquma Local Municipality with unwavering dedication and principled leadership as the UDM’s Chief Whip in Council. His passion for justice, his fearless voice in defence of the marginalised, and his enduring commitment to clean and ethical governance have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of working alongside him. Sir Gidz was more than a colleague. He was a brother, a mentor, and a true servant of the people. He brought not only discipline and integrity into Council chambers but also a unique warmth and humour. Who could forget his famous phrase during meetings when trying to keep order and bring focus: “ninganukiselwa yi barbecue sauce.” It was a light-hearted yet firm reminder not to get distracted or prolong debates unnecessarily. It was in these moments that his rare ability to lead with both authority and humanity shone through. As we mourn, we also celebrate a life lived in service of the greater good. May his spirit continue to inspire us to carry forward the ideals he stood for, which include humility, service, and unwavering commitment to the people.
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21 Apr, 2025
UDM condolences on passing of Pope Francis
Statement by Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, MP, UDM Deputy President and Leader in Parliament The United Democratic Movement (UDM) sends its heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church, the Vatican and all Catholics around the world following the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis. We honour his life of service, humility and compassion. Pope Francis was a leader who stood for peace, justice and care for the poor and marginalised. His commitment to interfaith dialogue and the right to freedom of religion or belief. His efforts to bring people together, regardless of their background, will be remembered for generations to come. He was against all wars across the globe. He was a champion of social justice and the social gospel for all peoples. The UDM acknowledges the deep spiritual guidance he provided to millions across the world. His legacy will continue to inspire people of all faiths and Christians around the world. The UDM extends its heartfelt condolences to the South African Catholic community and Catholics worldwide during this time of mourning. We honour his spiritual leadership and the profound inspiration he offered to billions of people worldwide. May his soul rest in eternal peace, may his legacy continue to guide us toward a more just and compassionate world.
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16 Apr, 2025
A giant has fallen: UDM City of Johannesburg caucus pays tribute to the late Don Mlangeni Nawa
Statement by Yongama Zigebe, Councillor in the City of Johannesburg for the United Democratic Movement and Chairperson of the S79 Committee on Gender, Youth and People with Disabilities The United Democratic Movement (UDM) Caucus in the City of Johannesburg is deeply saddened by the passing of legendary South African actor, Mr Don Mlangeni Nawa, at the age of 65. His death marks the end of an era in the arts, one that gave dignity to black voices and brought the real stories of township life to our screens. Mr Nawa was not just an entertainer, he was a storyteller, a cultural activist and a mirror to South African society. His unforgettable performances from Bra Zeb in Isidingo, to roles in 'Sgudi 'Snaysi, Hlala Kwabafileyo, The Throne, The Estate and Shaka iLembe, captured the daily struggles, dreams and strength of ordinary people across this country. In a nation where the arts have historically been a battleground for identity, justice, and resistance, Mlangeni stood as a cultural freedom fighter. He gave voice to people emerging from oppression, navigating the new terrain of democracy and striving for self-definition. His performances resonated across generations, transcending screens and theatres to become a part of our national consciousness. As the UDM Caucus in the City of Johannesburg, a city that serves as the heartbeat of our country’s artistic and cultural life, we salute this son of the soil. His contribution to civic memory and cultural development cannot be overstated. In every township street and city apartment where his voice once echoed, there now lingers the silence of loss. But there also remains the echo of his truth — unfiltered, uncompromising, and unforgettable. We call on the City of Johannesburg to consider a fitting tribute to Mr Nawa. Whether it be through renaming a public theatre, launching a scholarship fund for young actors or establishing a cultural project in his honour, we believe his legacy must be preserved for future generations. To the family, friends and colleagues of Mr Don Mlangeni Nawa, we send our deepest condolences. South Africa mourns with you. He was not only loved, but he was also significant. A true national treasure. May his journey to the spirit world be in peace, and may his name be remembered among the greats who shaped our culture and national identity.
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11 Mar, 2025
UDM condolences to families of R21 bus crash victims and urges road safety compliance
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of twelve lives in a devastating bus crash on the R21 near OR Tambo International Airport in Gauteng today. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and loved ones of the deceased during this incredibly difficult time. We also extend our thoughts and prayers to those who have been injured and wish them a full and speedy recovery. This heartbreaking incident follows two other recent bus crashes in KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State, bringing the total number of fatalities to nineteen in just two weeks. These tragedies highlight the urgent need for stricter road safety measures and responsible driving. We urge all road users, especially public transport operators, to always prioritise safety by: 1. Obeying all rules of the road i.e. the speed limit, road signs and safe following distances must always be observed. 2. Ensuring roadworthiness of vehicles by thoroughly checking them before every trip to prevent mechanical failures, especially tires and brakes. 3. Resting when tired as fatigue is a major cause of accidents, drivers must take regular breaks to ensure they are alert and able to react to road conditions. Losing lives on our roads is unacceptable. The UDM calls on the authorities to intensify road safety campaigns, enforce stricter vehicle inspections and ensure that those responsible for public transport uphold the highest safety standards. May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may their families find strength during this painful time.
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14 Nov, 2019
Condolences with passing of Xhosa King Zwelonke Sigcawu
We have learnt with shock of the untimely passing of the AmaXhosa King Mpendulo Zwelonke Sigcawu. His death is a terrible loss for the Xhosa Nation and South Africa. King Zwelonke was an outspoken and independent individual who did not shy away from expressing his opinions – especially when things were not right in our country. On behalf of the United Democratic Movement and myself, I express our condolences with his family and the Xhosa people. May his soul rest in peace. Statement by: Mr Bantu Holomisa UDM President
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25 Mar, 2019
Condolences with the passing away of Princess Buthelezi
The United Democratic Movement passes its condolences to Prince Buthelezi, and his family, on the passing of his wife. It certainly is a day where we are sorrowful for a person taken from our midst. We are grateful for her contribution to the struggle and remaining the anchor of her family while Prince Buthelezi was part of the process to overthrow the apartheid regime. May her soul rest in peace. Issued by: Mr Bantu Holomisa, MP UDM President
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03 Dec, 2018
Mendi Msimang: Rest in peace our struggle hero
A tribute by Mr Bantu Holomisa The nation is mourning the painful death of yet another son of the soil, uTata Mendi Msimang. He was cut from the same cloth as the founding president of our democracy, Tata Madiba and of the same generation of people like the great Tata Walter Sisulu. Ntate Msimang distinguished himself in the fight for a democratic, non-racial, non-sexist and a prosperous South Africa. He remained true to that vision up until his death. He represented our country par excellence when he served as an envoy in London between 1995 and 1998. In his honour, we must work harder to improve the lives of the people of South Africa. We must ensure that the land is returned to the people and used to ensure inclusive economic growth and development. We must make schools work and become safer places to teach and learn. We must eradicate informal settlements and improve on the quality of basic health services. We must deepen the battle against the abuse of women and children, and we must ensure that all citizens enjoy their freedoms as equals. Only once we have achieved this, can we seek to adequately honour his memory and legacy. As the United Democratic Movement, we say: Ulale kakuhle Tata. I will personally miss you and pass our condolences to the entire Msimang family. I would also like to take this opportunity to pay respect to the African National Congress as his lifelong political home. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
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15 Aug, 2018
Condolences with the passing of Veronica Sobukwe
As we celebrate women’s month, we are saddened that another of the nation’s mothers Zondeni Veronica Sobukwe has left us. As many had happened with many of the wives of imprisoned struggle icons, Mrs Sobukwe held the fort at home. She was a true example of a strong, capable woman who was never daunted by what the Apartheid government threw at her and her family. Our condolences with the family and friend of Mrs Sobukwe, as well as with the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania. May her soul rest in peace. Issued by: Mr Bantu Holomisa, MP UDM President
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03 May, 2018
Debate: Condolence Motion on the passing of Ms Winnie Madikizela Mandela
Honourable Speaker and Members, Mr Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, MP and UDM Deputy-President A big tree, an outstanding servant of the people, a struggle icon has fallen. Dr Maya Angelou, in her poem “The Great Tree has Fallen” says, and I quote: “…. when great souls die, after a period, peace blooms, slowly and always irregularly. Spaces fill with a kind of soothing electric vibration. Our senses, restored never to be the same, whisper to us. They existed. They existed. We can be. Be and be better. For they existed.” As we mourn and are still trying to come to terms with the untimely death of Mam’ uWinnie, no one can deny the fact that our lives are better because she existed. Mama was a fearless freedom fighter, who brought her superlative courage to the struggle during the darkest hours of oppression. She was a colossus that bestrode the lives of the poor and downtrodden, shielding them from the vicious onslaught of the apartheid regime. It was therefore not surprising that South Africans, who understand the passage of the struggle for freedom, regarded her with veneration. It is because these South Africans understand that both in the war against the apartheid regime and in peace, Mam’ uWinnie served South Africa unfailingly and wholeheartedly for decades. For these reasons, it was also not surprising that, when Mama uWinnie passed away, the world rang with tributes to this great leader of our time. We were however flabbergasted by the ostentatious vulgarity of the criticism of her legacy by some of her detractors and the brazen lies they told to tarnish her image. Despite your venomous attacks on her, our love and respect for her remains undiminished. Disappointingly, even the behaviour displayed by some of those who tried to defend her legacy was at times marked by puerility. This group displayed an exclusivist notion to national interest and the right to defend her legacy, which was extremely intolerant of dissenting views, whether valid or not. It the saddest irony of history and a damning indictment of our leadership that we used her passing to divide the very same nation she fought tooth and nail to unite. Colleagues, you know that I prefer truth to comfort! Granted, Mama was not without faults. She made mistakes just like everyone else. However, to reduce her legacy to her mistakes understands neither the dangers of the struggle for freedom, nor the monumental sacrifices on which our pedestal of hope is premised. In this regard, we owe it to the youth of this country and future generations to tell an objective account of Mam’ uWinnie’s historical contribution to our liberation struggle that is free of distortions. Madam Speaker, Throughout our struggle for freedom, Mam’s uWinnie was sustained not only by her love for our people, but by her sincerity and commitment towards building a democratic, united, non-racial and non-sexist South Africa. In your honour Mama, we will continue to fight for the improvement of the lives of the poor and to ensure that land is returned back to our people. We will not let your passing, as our struggle icons, to be the end of era of South African greatness! We will continue to individually and collectively work hard towards building a South Africa in which we look forward to the sunrise of our tomorrow! Menze Thixo aphumle ngonaphakade. Umkhanyisele ngokhanyiso olungacimiyo. Thank you.
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04 Apr, 2018
UDM Youth Vanguard pays its respects to a woman of note: uMama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela
The United Democratic Movement Youth Vanguard (UDM Youth Vanguard) grieves the passing away of the woman of who breast-fed the nation; hence we call her “The Mother of the Nation”. The UDM Youth Vanguard pays its respects to The Mother of the Nation who dedicated her entire life to the struggle. We join fellow South Africans in lauding a woman who distinguished herself as an unrelenting campaigner for the human rights of the oppressed masses of the past. In those years, non-white women where certainly the utmost marginalised and vulnerable members of society: she did the women of this country proud. Mama Winnie should therefore be admired by young South Africans as an example of what it means to have tenacity and to work hard to achieve one’s goals (even such a lofty goal as fighting for the liberation of an entire people). Mama Winnie, you set an example during each phase of your life, that should teach young people (especially young women and girls) what it means to be a strong and dedicated. Mama, the spirit you displayed must remain an inspiration to the young to continue with the struggle to transform South Africa into a Winning Nation. The UDM Youth Vanguard wishes that the Madikizela-Mandela families must mourn the passing away of uMama without tears; only because she had worked tirelessly and had done her part to make this Country free of minority domination and social cruelty. May your soul find rest in right place in Paradise; which we believe is better than Eden. Rest in peace Mama wesizwe soMzantsi Afrika. Issued by: Mr Mbongi Majija Chairperson of the UDM Youth Vanguard National Task Team
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03 Apr, 2018
UDEMWO mourns the passing of the Mother of the Nation
The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) joins the nation in mourning the passing of the phenomenal woman of our time. Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela is one of the few women (if any) who is admired by most women across the political sphere. Mama lived with the poorest of the poor; she shared so many pains with those forgotten citizens of this country. UDEMWO salutes her for all the hard work and dedication she has displayed for all her life. She was such a humble and down to earth mother of all. Her strong and phenomenal character gave a real definition of a true Mbokodo. Many women around the country and the world were inspired by her spirit. UDEMWO chooses to continue with the legacy of strong and dedicated women for the betterment of this country. We will always remember the role she played during hard times of this country. When she selflessly dedicated her life during apartheid era. In spite of all the hardships she went through, she always wore that beautiful smile. She is without a doubt “The Mother of the Nation”. Rest in peace Mama.
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23 Jan, 2018
RIP #BraHugh – you will be sorely missed!
It is with great sadness that we have learnt that South African jazz pioneer and trumpeter par excellence, Hugh Masekela, has succumbed to prostate cancer. He put up a brave fight. We recognise your contribution, not only to jazz and music in general, but to the fight for freedom of South Africa through the arts. You rose despite the limitations imposed on an oppressed Nation at the time of Apartheid. Your life is a testimony to the strength and resilience of South Africans and serves as inspiration to young South Africans that adversity can be overcome in a constructive manner. To Bra Hugh’s family and friends, we mourn his loss with you and wish you peace and solace during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace. Issued by: Mr Bantu Holomisa, MP and UDM President
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13 Jun, 2017
Condolences for Mr Ahmed Kathrada, Bantu Holomisa’s contribution to Parliamentary Debate
Honourable Speaker, and Honourable Members The United Democratic Movement (UDM) appreciates the opportunity to honour, Ahmed Kathrada, a tower of strength and a source of inspiration to many generations; even if it could have been done earlier and better. I had the honour to meet Kathy and his fellow Rivonia Trialists in Umtata in 1989. Their presence and words spoken at the welcome-home rally, we organised for them, gave us the courage to continue supporting the struggle for liberation, knowing that we were on the right side of history. During my encounters with this stalwart, and others, they showed courage, humility and dignity. They reminded us that the seeming impossible can be done. They were always attentive, frank and robust when discussing issues. Again in 1990, the Rivonia Trialists converged in Umtata to welcome home the late OR Tambo. At that time, in the company of the late Madiba and OR, we discussed our perspective on the so-called Black on Black violence. I was accompanied by the current Military Ombudsman, General TT Matanzima and the current Commander of the United Nations Forces in the Democratic Republic of Congo, General DM Mgwebi. We advised the leadership that the Apartheid government was negotiating in bad faith and that it was trying to catch the African National Congress (ANC) with a Trojan-Horse strategy. At that time, it became clear that the National Party delegation (led by Mr Niel Barnard) and the ANC team (led by Mr Jacob Zuma) had failed to plan for the security of the leaders and activists. It was a big security risk that could have created serious problems for the success of the negotiations; we therefore stepped in. The rest, as they say, is history. Today, the UDM offers its condolences to Kathy’s wife and life-partner, Ms Barbara Hogan, the family, friends and the ANC. During his last days, Kathy was deeply troubled by the conduct of the sitting Head of State and could not reconcile this conduct with the sacrifice he and other stalwarts made for this democracy. I hope that this House will soon truly honour him by responding positively to his call to Mr Zuma to leave office; especially seen in the light of this most recent email scandal. May his soul rest in peace. I thank you. Address by Mr Bantu Holomisa, UDM President, MP in the National Assembly
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28 Mar, 2017
UDM mourns the loss of Struggle stalwart Ahmed Kathrada
The United Democratic Movement is saddened to hear that Struggle stalwart Ahmed Kathrada has passed away after his brief illness. Another giant has left this earth. I first met Kathy in 1989, in Mthatha, just after his and his comrades’ release from Robben Island. I was impressed with his quiet fortitude and dignity. He was part of a crop of leaders of the African National Congress (ANC) that we will forever idealise because of their style of leadership and the sacrifices they made in their efforts to free the oppressed masses of South Africa. Most notable was the respectful and considered manner in which he always spoke with his comrades. In his latter years, he was quite vocal about his disappointment with the current direction of the ANC and he leaves us at a time where his moral guidance is desperately needed. We mourn his loss with the people of South Africa, and express our heartfelt condolences to his life partner, family and friends, as well as his colleagues. Rest in Peace Kathy.
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11 Jul, 2016
Condolence with the passing away of Dumisani (Mazola) Mafu
Receiving news of the untimely departure of Dumisani Mazola Mafu is with immense distress and profound sadness. His passing away robs us of one of the greatest sons of our people, a former Commander of Umkhonto Wesizwe (MK) in particular in the then Transkei Region, a leader and a friend to many. Mazola is the former MK soldier and commander, and he was a link between the then Transkei Defence Force and MK in Lusaka. The trust that existed between us led to the then Transkei Defence Force being requested by the highest leadership of the ANC to train MK soldiers on Conventional Warfare, in Uganda. It also resulted to MK soldiers being accommodated in the then Transkei Defence Force Institutions for advanced training. Accordingly, his leadership expertise resulted to a smooth transition in the then Transkei, towards reintegration to a new South Africa post 1994 without any blood spilling. I am personally and collectively thankful to his trust and skilful leadership. I and the United Democratic Movement (UDM) expresses our shock on the passing on of this capable and brilliant people’s soldier and leader. I would like to pass my deepest condolences to his wife, the children, the family, the ANC, friends and comrades. Leaders are born, live and die. Mazola was one of the extraordinary leaders that had passion for the liberation struggle. He was a diligent, brilliant and focused person to a level whereby his commitment was not based on his personal beneficiation but on the total liberation of the people of South Africa. His, was for a just society. He may die but his contribution will never be forgotten. I and the people of this country, will miss his commitment and dedication. This country has lost a leader indeed. Our souls are deeply sad by his suddenly death. To his family, we want to tell you that you are not alone in this deep sad moment. I cry with you and I know that the people of this country are crying too. No one can take over the pain you feel but our Creator because HE is the one that gives and takes. It is our responsibility to take where Mazola left, take the baton and carry on. He has left a huge gap in the South African political landscape which we are challenged to fill up. To his wife and children, please find space in your heart to be strong and let him to rest. Akuhlanga lungehlanga. To the ANC and the Alliance, you have lost, we have lost and the country has lost. Please give him a heroic send off. Uhambe kakuhle mhlobo wam nabantu abaninzi, soze ulibaleke. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Statement issued by: Mr Bantu Holomisa UDM President
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20 May, 2015
Condolence Motion: Ms Ruth Mompati, former MP – addresss by Ms CN Majeke, MP
Honourable Speaker and Members The United Democratic Movement (UDM) extends its heartfelt condolence to the family, the ANC and friends of the late member of the National Assembly Ms Ruth Mompati. A heroin with a good sense of humour and respect of mankind, a towering icon who was exemplary to our nation has fallen. Mme Mompati was blessed with resilience beyond measure. She was obedient to her calling and dared even her oppressors to embrace love. Her majestic ways were indicative of more than a just mere person – she was indeed an extraordinary human being. Her model is one for the ages and we thank her sacrifice. We are blessed for having a rare opportunity of sharing her in our life time. She was a good servant of the people, a great leader and a mother par excellence. When we pause and literally turn back into our past history at this momentous juncture of South Africa history, one is just amazed how MAMA has waved a humanness magic till the last day. Now that she is perusing an afterlife I believe all of us here, owe ourselves a fraction of wisdom to live and lead our lives like the life of selflessness and dedication to goodness of human spirit, Mme Mompati has dedicated her whole life to. We must dedicate the remainder of our lives to learn and live by principles MAMA dedicated her whole life and persona to, even if it could be a fraction of it. Indeed, we are much poorer without MAMA Mompati, she was a moral campus, our star of hope, humility and compassion and a greatest giant of them all. Mama epitomised humility in her actions, togetherness in her ways and joy in her nature. She has touched and influenced lives of many to be selfless, to be humble, to appreciate all we have and to be dignified when faced with tough decisions. We are eternally indebted to her for her monumental contribution to the freedom and democracy we now enjoy. She has now gone to join other stalwarts, ours is to hold tight to the teachings and memories of her selfless concern for the welfare of others. We cherish her hard work and leadership. Robala ka kgotso Mme Mompati, ore lwetse wa fenya – we are what we are today because of the contributions you have made to bring freedom to our lives and our children. May your soul rest in eternal peace. To her family, the African National Congress and its Alliance and friends, we hope, with time, you shall be able to close the chapter and allow her to rest in peace as the heavens have already integrated her as part of the family. Thank you End
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31 Dec, 2013
Tribute to the late Lieutenant General (Ret) Lambert Moloi
Tribute to the late Lieutenant General (Ret) Lambert Moloi by Major General (Ret) Bantu Holomisa, MP, Deputy Chairperson National Defence Force Service Commission We mourn the loss of the late Lieutenant General (Ret) Lambert Moloi; a former commander of Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK) – an outstanding man and a disciplined soldier. As an MK Commander, General Moloi worked closely with then Transkei Defence Force (TDF) officers and as a result he was assigned “Comrade A” as his code and nickname. We worked with General Moloi for many years; first when he was an MK Commander during the struggle. He and I again crossed paths in September 2009 when the South African Ministry of Defence established the interim National Defence Force Service Commission (NDFSC). Our work in the interim NDFSC was to, amongst others, advise on the remuneration and service conditions of the members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). When the Commission started its work, General Moloi campaigned hard for the improvement of the conditions of service of the SANDF personnel. His military background, together with the crucial role he played in overseeing the integration of the different armed forces in 1994 enabled him to anticipate and understand the needs of the SANDF members. General Moloi’s institutional memory contributed immensely towards the realisation of the Commission’s objectives. This quality came in very handy when the Commission conducted benchmarking studies in various countries around the world. He was a man who paid attention to detail and could at times be extremely pedantic and he interrogated all the recommendations of the Commission. No tribute to General Moloi is complete without acknowledging his monumental contribution to the struggle for liberation. We successfully handled many operations with him long before former President FW de Klerk unbanned the liberation movements. Comrade A therefore was a frequent visitor to our shores and he demonstrated a great deal of humility and empathy – he would take the time to engage TDF officers about every issue under the sun. He organised and oversaw many training projects, including the training of MK cadres, by the TDF, in Transkei and Uganda with a specific focus on conventional warfare. TDF General Mandela managed this project and it was a great success. During our joint operations he proved to be a very disciplined and focused individual who prized the liberation of our people above all else. These events and programmes culminated in a strong relationship and mutual trust between the ANC, its military and the Transkei Military Government. It was against this backdrop that the Transkei Military Government embraced change long before 1994 and agreed to be integrated into the new South Africa without resistance, unlike other homelands. The other rarely mentioned benefit of this relationship was that, by the time the senior MK commanders came back from exile, Comrade A’s relationship with TDF had laid a solid foundation for the relatively smooth integration of these two armed forces into a single national defence force. I express my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Lieutenant General (Ret) Moloi. It is never easy to get used to the passing of a loved one especially that of a person of his calibre. He will be sorely missed. May His Soul Rest in Peace.
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24 Dec, 2013
Tribute to the late former President Nelson Mandela
Tribute to the late former President Nelson Mandela delivered on behalf of the UDM in the Joint Sitting of Parliament on 9 December 2013 by Mr Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, MP Mister Speaker, Deputy President, Honourable Members, Distinguished Guests and Fellow South Africans, From the outset, let me apologise for the absence of my President, Mr Bantu Holomisa in today’s joint sitting. Mr Holomisa was unable to make it due to being busy with the funeral arrangements of our late former President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. On behalf of the United Democratic Movement (UDM), I wish to join the millions here at home and abroad in extending our heartfelt condolences to the family, the African National Congress (ANC) and friends of the late former President Mandela. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of grief. In fact, words seem inadequate to express how sorry we are for your loss. Fellow South Africans, We are gathered here to undertake the sad duty of bidding farewell to an outstanding leader of the 20th century, the father of our Nation, our struggle icon and the first democratically elected President of the Republic of South Africa, the late Dr Nelson Mandela. Tata Madiba – as he was affectionately known – spent 27 years in prison fighting gallantly in order to ensure that you and I can enjoy the freedom and democracy that he and his generation of heroes and heroines did not enjoy. To Tata and his generation, no price was too high for the liberation of the peoples of Africa. This turned him into a repository for all the hopes and aspirations of our people- a duty he discharged with distinction. When Tata came out of prison, he displayed an amazingly high capacity for forgiveness, which at times brought a look of complete incredulity in the faces of those who believed that we did not have it in ourselves to transcend our divisive political past. Tata was however undeterred by this. He continued to epitomise the values of non-racialism, reconciliation and service to the people. Under his sterling leadership, we demonstrated to the whole world that we too were capable of building a winning Nation, united in our diversity. In the words of former President Thabo Mbeki and I quote: “Madiba pre-eminently represented a generation of the Titans that pulled us out of the abyss and placed us on a pedestal of hope on which we continue to rest.” End quote. Mister Speaker, Madiba was a man of integrity, whose humanity and compassion inspires us greatly and will continue to inspire us, and future generations, for many years to come. John Maxwell’s apt description of integrity, in his book, The Four Pillars of Leadership, captures the essence of the values that Tata Madiba espoused during his lifetime, when he says and I quote: “Integrity commits itself to character over personal gain, to people over things, to service over power, to principle over convenience, to the long view over the immediate.” The outpouring of grief after Tata’s passing, the likes of which are rarely seen, bears testimony to this and also clearly demonstrates that he was not only thought of as just the father of our Nation, but as one of the greatest leaders and outstanding heroes of the 20th century. Honourable Members, One of Tata’s facets of leadership which also deserves mention here today was his willingness to listen and learn from people from all walks of life. Growing up in deep rural parts of the Eastern Cape during Tata term and watching him in action, I was always inspired by his ability to listen to opposing views and his courage to admit when he was wrong. We should learn these important values of tolerance and humility from Tata, as they will help us in our efforts to revive his and Bishop Tutu’s vision of building a Rainbow Nation. Fellow South Africans, The passing of Tata, sad as it is, provides us yet another opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the distance we have come. It should remind us that our hard-won liberty is built on a contrasting tale of men at their most evil and most heroic, and where like everything else in life, the good emerged victorious over the bad. This is one victory that we must never betray or squander. In this regard, the best present we can give to Tata Madiba is to preserve his legacy by espousing his values and ensuring that the torch of freedom and democracy, for which he courageously fought, continues to burn. In his eloquent words, we should ensure that: “The sun never sets on so glorious a human achievement.” Lala ngoxolo Yem-yem, Ngqolomsila, Sophitsho, Vela Bembhentsele, Madib’ iindonga. Ugqatso lwakho ulifezile. Aaah, Dalibhunga! Aaah, Dalibunga! I thank you.
