40 years later, Midrand SAPS Vispol commander hangs up his boots in style
Colonel Gonafeelan Micah Govender thanked his wife, Sally, and the kids for the support they have given him and now its time to spend time with his family.
Various speakers descended to the podium to describe outgoing Midrand Police’s Vispol commander as a hard worker and a dedicated policeman.
A journey which began on June 15 1984 for Colonel Gonafeelan Micah Govender in Kwazulu-Natal has been nothing short of bravery, commitment, and dedication.
Midrand police members celebrated a farewell party for the much-travelled officer on July 26 in Perere Restaurant in Carlswald’s Décor Centre.
Govender started by working shifts, slowly climbing the ladder which included stints in the guard unit, crime prevention, and the dog unit. He also worked at various different stations, including: Randburg, Douglasdale, Sandton, Bramely, Joburg Central, and, ultimately, Midrand.
Colonel Logan Govender from Norwood said he first met Govender at the Joburg Central station and was often confused because of the same surname.
Logan said, “Now and again, people will come in and look for Colonel Govender. But the question will always be which one? We have known each other for a very long time and he is a hard worker. And it’s easy to hear him from down the corridor because he is always clicking his pen. I just want to say, from my side, that happy retirement; you have run your race with diligence. You knew what you wanted and always went for it.”
Acting Vispol commander Colonel Hosea Mantji, speaking on behalf of the station commander Brigadier Molefi David Tsotsotso, wished Govender well, saying it was a pleasure to work with him at the Midrand station.
“I wish you all the best in your retirement and go enjoy and get some rest. On behalf of the station commander, and other colleagues whom you have worked closely with, it was indeed a great pleasure working with you because of your dedication and commitment. Your years of hard work have paid off and go have fun. Working with you was easy because you knew what you wanted and you did not take failure kindly,” said Mantjie.
In his reply speech, Govender thanked all those who attended and jokingly said, that as soon as he leaves, he must now be referred to by ‘Mr Govender’ and not by rank anymore.
“I just want to thank God for giving me the strength, guidance, and being with me throughout various challenges. I talk from a time of reflection when I started and went to my first complaint case. The driver told me I would be sitting with the suspect from the back of the van. From there on, I moved from station to station and the good thing is that to each station you go to, there are new dynamics, and challenges, and it strengthens you in terms of your career,” he said.
He said it was a sad moment to have worked for so long and suddenly say goodbye to his colleagues.
Govender said his success to go for 40 years in the service relies on his support structure, and he is thankful for the support he received from his family, including his wife, Sally.
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