No peaceful rest here

eMZINONI – Cemetery vandals damage not only the graves at the local cemetery, but they also hurt and negatively affect the lives of the descendants of those whose final resting place is dishonoured.

So said Mr Sweki David Mziyane, a resident, after his family’s graves were vandalised recently.

When he was visiting his ancestors to do family traditional rituals.

“I was shocked and heartbroken.

“It felt like the day I was told that my grandmother had died.

“Whoever did this, must realise that a grave and a tombstone signify the existence of a past life on earth for the future generations.

“Now my great grandparents’ memorial is destroyed.

“This is blasphemy and those who are doing this should be ashamed.”

The estimated value of the damage is R8 000 which Mr Mziyane said took him two years to raise to erect the tombstones.

“I did the unveiling ceremony three years ago with joy, because I could build a very nice resting place for my ancestors, but now it is destroyed.

“I appeal to the community to respect the dignity of the dead.”