Minister in the Presidency for Women and ANC Women’s League President, Bathabile Dlamini, has told mourners that the heavens must be happy to receive the spirit of Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.
Speaking at the funeral service of Madikizela-Mandela at Orlando Stadium in Soweto on Saturday, Minister Dlamini described her as a lioness.
“Mama Winnie protected South Africans and stayed with the poor,” she said.
South Africa will never have another Mother of the Nation, following the passing of Madikizela-Mandela.
“She spoke the truth and remained the voice of reason. Mam' Winnie was a true icon and gave true leadership like our forbearers,” Minister Dlamini said.
She described Madikizela-Mandela as a gallant fighter, a heroine, a struggle icon and a forthright liberation fighter. “Mama Winnie, you have served your people with dignity.”
As Madikizela-Mandela fought against patriarchy, Minister Dlamini said women who contributed to the struggle should aspire to be President.
Former Police Minister Fikile Mbalula, who delivered a tribute on behalf of the ANC, said Mama Madikizela-Mandela was fearless.
He said government was in process of implementing free education, something she had fought for.
The funeral of Madikizela-Mandela is classified as a Special Official Funeral Category 1 and therefore it has elements of both military and ceremonial honours.
She passed away on 2 April at Netcare Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg. – SAnews.gov.za
