NEC pays homage at home
THE ANC’S national executive committee (NEC) members came out in large numbers to pay homage to the late Winnie Madikizela-Mandela at her home in Soweto.
There was a lot of activity at the home of the Struggle icon yesterday prior to their arrival, with a catering company decorating a marquee in which the ANC leadership met the family.
The interior of the marquee was decorated in the governing party’s colours. The main road leading to the house had a heavy security presence.
And ANC Women’s League members in their party regalia sang and danced as they waited for the NEC members to arrive.
Leading the delegation was the party’s head of elections, Fikile Mbalula, accompanied by Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, Lindiwe Zulu, Senzo Mchunu, Pravin Gordhan and Nomvula Mokonyane, among others.
A short prayer session was held and a book of condolences was launched by Deputy President David Mabuza, who signed it along with the other NEC members.
Mabuza said the ANC was proud of the role that Madikizela-Mandela had played in the Struggle and they would celebrate her life.
“We thank all those who came to the house to offer their condolences,” he said.
He said Madikizela-Mandela embodied the Struggle and that the ANC held her name in high regard.
“Anyone is allowed to come to the house and pay their respects, including the opposition parties,” Mabuza said.
“We are going to take this opportunity, as we celebrate her life, to send a message to the ANC to say the journey continues… Members must unite, take over the spear and proceed.”
NEC member Ronald Lamola said Madikizela-Mandela was a voice of reason for the ANC leadership. He recalled the times he had spent with Madikizela-Mandela.
“I think the ANC must honour her by ensuring that expropriation without compensation happens immediately across all spheres of government.”