Deputy Speaker, we are witnessing in quick succession the passing of those stalwarts who played a role in our freedom and the establishment of a constitutional democracy. Comrade Nelson Ramodike was a pragmatist who balanced what was possible with what was desirable so that, incrementally, and by bold leaps, the people of our country could move forward and realise their full potential.
The political choices he made reflected the dilemma of people in our country regarding the best vehicle for the most effective transformation of our society. He was not afraid to try different political homes because he was not conflicted about the necessity for change that mattered. He fully appreciated where political change had been driven from and where success came from, but it was the lack of economic change in the lives of the people that really caused him anguish.
To his wives, children, grandchildren, friends, supporters and colleagues, we extend our condolences and pray that the solutions that Nelson Ramodike was seeking for his community and South Africa will be taken up within the Ramodike family so that what he strove for in life does not end with his passing away. We are all runners in a relay and the baton must be passed on so that somewhere in the future, the race is run and won. Rest in peace, Nelson Ramodike. Thank you. [Applause.]