Farewell to local freedom fighter

THOUSANDS paid their last respects to freedom fighter Archbishop Bonginkosi Alphas Madlopha at Hlanganani sports ground in eSikhaleni on Saturday

Members of parliament, national and provincial leadership, various church groups and the community bid farewell to the local hero.

Madlopha passed away while on his way to attend the State of the Nation address in parliament in Cape Town.

He experienced chest pains and was later transported to hospital where he passed away, in the presence of his wife Celiwe Madlopha, a member of parliament.

KZN Premier Senzo Mchunu described him as a man all South Africans should imitate, for his community work and as a freedom fighter.

‘During the time of the struggle, he was the only person who was brave enough to conduct funeral services for ANC members. Even when they burnt his house down and wanted to kill him, he still remained the loyal servant to the organisation and his community. We need to follow in his footsteps and also make a difference in our society,’ said Mchunu.

Former KZN Premier Dr Zweli Mkhize expressed his deepest condolences to the family, community and his church. He delivered a heartfelt speech about Madlopha’s life’s journey and achievements.

National leaders of the African National Congress (ANC), South African National Civic Organisation (Sanco), Cosatu, SACP, KZN legislature and Ikusasa Lesizwe Independent Ministers Association also attended the funeral and gave recognition for the role he played in these organisations.

Minister of Transport Sbu Ndebele, Cosatu leader Sdumo Dlamini, Mildred Oliphant, Sihle Zikalala, Hlengiwe Mkhize, Nonhlanhla Khoza, Nocawu Mafu, Thandi Memela and local municipal mayors also attended the funeral.