Molala was a man of many talents
NKOSI Potjo Molala, popularly known as “Let Them Dance”, died last Sunday to the anguish not only of his family but football fans across the country.
He’ll be especially missed in Atteridgeville, Tshwane, where his life as gifted soccer player, community leader, academic and writer was hugely appreciated.
In the early ’70s he played for Pretoria Callies, alongside other legends such as Lucas “Masterpieces” Moripe, Jan “Malombo” Lechaba, “Chiza” Sibanda, Patrick Dibetla, George “Mastermind” Kgobe, Frank “Mahaezel” Ramashala, the late Louis Kiwiet and the Shigo brothers Bantala and Isaac Jazi – to mention just a few.
He was a political activist who occupied various leadership positions in the Black Consciousness Movement, and was well-read. He graduated with a master’s degree from Unisa.
A prolific writer, he also wrote articles for Sowetan. In one of his articles in recent years, he lamented public facilities such as community halls being frequently used for church services. His concern was that certain preferred churches were allowed to use these facilities on fixed dates for up to 10 years. This, he said, was depriving the community of the right to have venues to address pertinent issues affecting them.
He was quick to point out that there was nothing wrong in different churches using such facilities for events such as funeral services, conferences and other events if they made prior bookings but to have one church group every week was unfair.
He did not live long enough to see this wish fulfilled: community halls still host the same churches every week.
The phenomenon has extended to more centres, including local cinemas and the Pretoria Showgrounds, which have become church venues. We have to go to town to watch movies!
In his memory, the powers that be must address the issue of public facilities and free them to be used for other activities that benefit the community. Rest in peace my “Tower”.
Andy Mukhari, e-mail