KZN MOURNS DR. MESHACK RADEBE
Kwazulu-natal Premier Sihle Zikalala has expressed deep shock and sadness at the death of deputy speaker of the KZN Legislature and MEC for Agriculture and Environmental Affairs, Dr. Meshack Radebe.
Radebe died on Saturday after a short illness.
The premier, on behalf of the provincial government of KZN, extended heartfelt condolences to the Radebe family, comrades, friends and relatives. “This has been one of the saddest and most painful weeks in the life of the province, as we mourn the passing of one of the greatest sons of our province.
“Dr. Radebe served as a member of the legislature, member of the executive council, MEC for Social Development and MEC for Agriculture and Environmental Affairs... During his time as MEC, Dr. Radebe earned himself the nickname Umkhumbi wokunethezeka because of his dedication to the delivery of services, especially to the poor, and other vulnerable groups.
Zikalala said what set Radebe apart was that he actively worked to pursue peace, stability, and reconciliation. “Dr. Radebe’s decorated legacy is that of leading peace initiatives in KZN. He distinguished himself in bringing peace between the warring factions of the ANC and IFP in Mpumalanga Township, near Hammarsdale, where he also lived. For this work he, together with his late IFP counterpart Sipho Mlaba, was recognised by the University of Natal and were both awarded honorary doctorates,” said Zikalala.
“He turned the township of Mpumalanga into a model for peace internationally. His preaching of peace together with the late Sipho Mlaba remains a monument and a lasting legacy that many generations will cherish.”
The premier said Radebe leaves a legacy of service delivery and his role in the struggle will be remembered. “We lower our hats to the undying spirit of Dr. Radebe for his role in the struggle for our liberation and for serving in the frontline against poverty, inequality and unemployment and for his selfless commitment to the creation of a democratic, non-racial, non-sexist and equal South Africa. We say farewell, Bhungane! Farewell, Makhululukhulu! Your work is now done,” said Zikalala.
ANC-KZN Provincial Spokesperson Nhlakanipho Ntombela said the ANC in KZN received the news of the untimely death of its former Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) member with great sorrow and sadness. Describing Radebe as “one of the most dedicated, humble and loyal members of the African National Congress”, Ntombela said, “The ANC feels deeply the loss of Dr. Radebe, whose life epitomised the resilience against injustice and black-on-black violence.” He passed on heartfelt condolences to the family and the entire province of KZN.
The IFP’S National Council Member and Msunduzi Municipality Exco member, Dennis Ntombela, called Radebe a wonderful, selfless, fearless leader. “Dr. Radebe was like a brother and father to me. He was a friend of my father. He respected everyone; whether they were young or old,” said Dennis. Dennis said Radebe loved peacemaking. “He had a love for the IFP leaders. I knew he was in hospital but we did not think he would die. The news of his death is a shock. My sincere condolences to KZN for the loss of this great leader,” said Dennis.