The late MEC for Transport, Bheki Ntuli and broadcaster Welcome “Bhodloza” Nzimande will receive state funerals.
This was announced by KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Sihle Zikalala, who said the presidency accepted their request for a category one Provincial Official Funeral for the two men.
“They deserve this recognition for the sterling role they played in advancing the lives of the people of KwaZulu-Natal. Anyone chronicling the history of KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa would be found wanting if the names of MEC Bheki “Mphemba” Ntuli and Welcome “Bhodloza” Nzimande did not take pride of place,” said Zikalala.
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“These were humble servants, ambassadors of peace who left an indelible imprint on our province. Their record contribution is the stuff of legends, that coming generations will do well to emulate. While the pain of the loss of these luminous stars is still too hard to bear, their legacy will never be erased from our hearts and minds. We will daily strive to end poverty and bring hope and dignity to our people.”
Ntuli died this weekend due to Covid-19 complications. Zikalala is yet to name a new Transport MEC. Legendary radio broadcaster, Nzimande, died on 15 January also due to a Covid-19 related illness.
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Nzimande was a recipient of an honorary Doctorate of Philosophy Degree in Visual and Performing Arts by Durban University of Technology’s Faculty of Arts and Design in September 2018.
Nzimande will be laid to rest on Wednesday in his hometown of Richmond while Ntuli will be buried on Thursday in Empangeni.
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