Members of the public, who are mourning the death of Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, have been afforded an opportunity to sign the condolence books made available across the country.
Deputy President David Mabuza was the first to sign the condolence book outside the home of struggle stalwart Winnie Madikizela-Mandela in Orlando West‚ Soweto‚ on Thursday.
The Inter Ministerial Committee (IMC) announced that the condolence books for the late Mama Winnie Madikizela–Mandela have been made available at the following venues: International Ports of Entry (airports), DIRCO Head Office at the OR Tambo Building in Tshwane, Parliament, Tuynhuys, The Union Buildings in Tshwane and at the Department of Arts and Culture.
Other venues include the Department of Communication (GCIS Head office), all Provincial Legislatures and all Premier’s Offices.
SAnews observed the signing of one of the condolence books at the Union Buildings in Tshwane, on Thursday.
Most of those who signed the condolence book spoke fondly about the late Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.
Paul Madige, 51, told SAnews that he will always remember her role in the struggle against the apartheid regime.
“Mama was very brave. She fearlessly fought for the poor, for the voiceless and all South Africans who were oppressed. South Africans and the whole world will always remember Mama for her bravery,” Madige said.
Patricia Langa, 36, from Atteridgeville, west of Tshwane, echoed the similar sentiments. She said because of Mama Winnie, South Africa has been liberated from the apartheid regime, adding that all South Africans today enjoy democracy.
“Mama played a role in the liberation struggle. When her husband was in prison, she continued with the struggle for freedom and at the same time raising her children,” Langa said.
“Rest in Peace. You have ran your race. We will always remembers you,” was one of the messages written by a member of the public in the condolence book at the Union Buildings.
Sathiel Seth Mazibuko, 58, told SAnews that Mama was "amazing" and despite being arrested so many times, she continued with the struggle for freedom without fear.
“South Africa and the world will remember Madikizela-Mandela as someone who was fearless,” Mazibuko said.
Anthon de Lange, told SAnews that South Africans will always remember Mama Madikizela-Mandela for the good work she has done for the poor. “She fought for the poor, we are now enjoying democracy because of her bravery,” de Lange said.
The Inter Ministerial Committee on the Special Official Funeral of the late Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela announced that other condolence books will be placed at Brandfort in the Free State, Mbizana and Mthatha in the Eastern Cape.
According to the IMC, the exact venues in these places will be communicated as soon as they have been finalised.
The IMC called on all political parties, faith based organisations and civil society to work in cohesion during the mourning period.
In consultation with Madikizela-Mandela’s family, government will host a memorial service at the Orlando Stadium, Soweto, on 11th April 2018, followed by a funeral service on the 14th of April 2018, at the same venue. – SAnews.gov.za
