Disruption of Mama Sobukwe’s funeral a shame

The disruption of Mama Zondeni Sobukwe’s funeral by factions of the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania was an embarrassing moment which sullied an event that was meant to honour a woman who lived most of her life serving her people and community. Mama Sobukwe was 91 when she died, having lived an unassuming life, for many years, in the little town of Graaff-Reinet.

That she still lived in Graaff-Reinet was testimony of her humility as she never sought fame or high office, on account of having been Mangaliso Sobukwe’s wife.

The disruption of her funeral resulted in deputy president David Mabuza – who was meant to deliver the eulogy – leave abruptly, without having said a word.

Defence minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula also left the funeral following demands made by some PAC supporters.

It is shameful that the disruptions led to the government’s withdrawal – leaving the PAC to continue with the funeral.

But it is understandable as the “hooligans” who disrupted the programme were unrelenting.

The funeral was not a platform to settle political scores.

So what if Mapisa-Nqakula, who was directing the funeral programme, is an ANC minister?

President Cyril Ramaphosa was correct to grant Mama Sobukwe a special official funeral category 2. This category is reserved for “distinguished persons specifically designated by the President of the Republic of South Africa”.

Her being afforded an official funeral did not take away from her loyalty and membership to the PAC. If anything, it was an affirmation of her contribution to the struggle and to the betterment of the lives of the poor.

Describing her role in the fight against racism and unjust apartheid laws, Ramaphosa had said: “Mme Sobukwe received The Order of Luthuli in Silver for her tenacious call for freedom of the people and steadfast support of incarcerated freedom fighters. Independent of her husband [Mangaliso] Sobukwe, she challenged the injustices metered out against the large population of South Africans”.

Perhaps the narrow-mindedness of some of the mourners best explains why the PAC has almost disappeared from the political radar.

Mama Sobukwe deserved better.

Her being afforded an official funeral did not take away from her loyalty to the PAC