Speaker, the UDM would like to extend its condolences to the family, friends, the ANC and colleagues of hon Prof Kader Asmal, who passed away yesterday afternoon. Our hearts go out to you in your time of sorrow.
Once again, South Africa has lost yet another struggle icon who dedicated his life to our struggle for liberation. As a Cabinet Minister of first Water Affairs and Forestry and then Education, Prof Asmal showed an impeccable work ethic. He worked hard to transform the department for the benefit of all South Africans.
The untimely death of Prof Asmal has robbed us of a true intellectual, a fearless fighter for human rights and social justice, who served our country with distinction. Our words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel. As a nation, we must hold tight to the values and principles which national heroes and heroines like the late hon Prof Asmal resolutely defended. His life was a life of service to others.
Ka Sepedi re re robala ka khut?o monna wa banna, senatla sa dinatla, mogale wa bagale.
Ke a leboga. [Legofsi.] (Translation of Sepedi paragraphs follows.)
[In Sepedi we say, may his soul rest in peace. He was a great man, a hero, a brave and strong man. Thank you. [Applause.]]