Myeni’s widow plans to stay in SA
THE widow of Lindani Myeni is seeking assistance from the government in order to obtain South African citizenship.
Lindsay, who is an American citizen, was speaking after her husband’s memorial service held at eMpangeni Rugby Club yesterday.
Myeni was shot dead by Honolulu police in the island state of Hawaii, in the US, three weeks ago. He had moved to the island early last year with his wife and children.
According to the Hawaiian police, Myeni was shot dead when officers were responding to a home burglary incident. It is alleged that when the police arrived at the scene, a scuffle occurred between Myeni and three officers outside a home. More than 200 people gathered yesterday at the venue for Myeni’s memorial service whose remains arrived in the country last Friday. The memorial service was attended by senior local and provincial government officials, including KZN premier Sihle Zikalala.
Lindsay said she had no intention of going back to the US as she was concerned about the safety of her two children.
“I have to do what is best for me and my children. I need to consult with the South African government to get citizenship, so that I can stay in my children’s home country even without my husband.”
Myeni’s grandmother, Ntombi Shushu, said from a young age, Myeni was a respectful and disciplined child.
“He loved his home, and we also loved him. When he left for the US for the first time, I cried because I feared that he would be treated as a foreigner. It was always fun to have Lindani around.”
Myeni’s friend, Celester Asuega, who flew from the small island of Samoa in the US, described his friend as a soft-spoken “gentle giant” who cared about his family.
“He was not just my friend, but he was my brother as well. He always lifted people’s spirits up,” he said.
The Zululand Rugby Union also handed over Myeni’s team jersey to the family.
Zikalala assured the family that the government would not rest until justice prevails.
“We also pray for former US president Barack Obama’s mediation, who hails from Hawaii, in bringing the killers of Lindani to book. To Mrs Myeni and the children, please know that KZN will always be home to you and the citizens of America,” said Zikalala.
Myeni is to be laid to rest tomorrow at uMfolozi Tvet College, Esikhawini.