Armsta veterans attend Armsta chairperson Sam Budzwa and the association's Fani Ramantshwana's memorial service. Photo: Nduduzo Nxumalo
Scores of Alexandra community members filled Marlboro Community Hall on 18 July to bid farewell to Armsta chairperson Sam Budzwa and the association’s Fani Ramantshwana.
The pair were gunned down in the evening in Marlboro while driving home after a meeting on 12 July. Tthe shooting that left another member of the association fighting for his life in hospital.
Armsta veterans attend Armsta chairperson Sam Budzwa and the association’s Fani Ramantshwana’s memorial service. Photo: Nduduzo Nxumalo
Speaking at an emotional memorial service that was attended by different taxi association representatives, Armsta deputy chairperson Tello Selepe called for calm and unity among members of the association.
“In a period of four years, Armsta has lost four incredible leaders through the barrel of a gun. I know that it is painful and unbearable but I urge all our members to remain calm and unite during this difficult time in our association,” said Selepe
Tello Selepe speaks at the memorial service for Armsta chairperson Sam Budzwa and the association’s Fani Ramantshwana. Photo: Nduduzo Nxumalo
Armsta deputy secretary Xoli Maziya described both Budzwa and Ramantshwana as genuine leaders who loved people and strived to help others. “Mr Budzwa was honest, humble and a visionary who always wanted to help others rise to a higher level.
“I worked with both Budzwa and Ramantshwana since 1996 and they were not only colleagues to me, they were also my brothers.”
Greater Alexandra Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Mpho Motsumi said he was optimistic that the incident will not compromise the gains of a peace agreement between two Alexandra taxi associations, Armsta and ATA.
Both Budzwa and Ramantshwana will be laid to on 21 July in Venda, Limpopo province.
