TRIBUTE TO MA SOBUKWE

GOODBYE, dearest mama

Hasten to the arms of Mangaliso, whose arms are opened in a welcoming gesture, whose smiling countenance is beckoning, whose dignified stature and knowingly nodding head says: “I knew you would be coming, my dear, what took you so long? I nearly froze to death, my darling, for it is cold, cold, extremely cold, in this grave, as only your bosom can bring warmth to these weary old bones.

“The devil in hell, where it is hot and warm, would not have me for I rightly, contemptuously, defied him in death and when I was alive.

“The devil has his protégés and I am not of their ilk. I could not and would not betray, offend or hurt you, dearest Veronica, by trading my integrity or selling my principles for the succour the devil was offering.

“Your abundant and sufficient warmth was enough for all the Sobukwes of the ungodly world.

“You nursed my lacerations while I was alive, soothed my bruised ego with kindly, dignified kisses, prompted and prodded me forward in my unwavering quest for justice, for in your uncanny and infinite wisdom you knew it was just.

“You illuminated the darkest chambers of my heart, making me jump with joy when there was nothing to rejoice about.

“You advised me to serve my people with love and dedication.

“You told me not to seek martyrdom but to be true to myself and the aspirations of the downtrodden.

“Welcome home, darling Veronica, you have been an anchor in my life without which I would drift astray.

“I am the happiest Robert Mangaliso, my darling, and I am happy you made it at last, albeit without your pass book or, should I say, dompass.”

With deepest sincere condolences.

Feeman Bukashe and family