Hon Speaker, I stand here before you today with a heavy heart, as we all mourn the sad passing of our dear and beloved colleague, Sisi Winkie Direko.
Sisi Winkie was a woman, not only of vision and leadership, but also of firm belief and unwavering dedication to the people of South Africa, whom she so loved and served with all her heart.
Today, we not only mourn, but also celebrate her life achievements and dedication to all who knew her. She touched many hearts in the community and remained devoted to the upliftment of the poor and most vulnerable. She was an educator, a carer and a fighter for what she believed was right.
She served selflessly during the days of apartheid and continued to do so during her years in government and even after she had retired. She led by example and was living proof of the fact that women are strong leaders. She not only listened to the plight of our people, but also dedicated her life to the betterment of their circumstances and future.
The poet Ellen Brenneman said it best when she wrote, and I quote:
... life holds so many facets the earth is only one.
"Kgotso, pula, nala." [Peace, rain and success.] May the warm welcome you always extended to us echo in heaven for eternity. Sisi Winkie, South Africa salutes you.
She always used to look very smart. She never wore a dress, as she was always in suits. One day, as I faced her, I said to her that she always looked smart and wore suits every day, and I wanted to know why. She responded by saying that somebody made them for her. Her breast was always ... [Laughter.] That was Sisi Winkie. Those are the things that brought me nearer to her. I thank you. [Laughter.]