Hon Deputy Speaker, to the family, the ANC and the friends of the late hon Nontsikelelo Albertina Sisulu, who passed away on 2 June 2011, on behalf of the UDM, please accept our most sincere condolences on the loss of Mama Sisulu.
It is with a heavy heart that I stand here today once more to bid farewell to yet another struggle icon. Mama Sisulu's death marks the end of an era of a fearless generation, one that former President Thabo Mbeki aptly described as "the generation of the titans that pulled us out of the abyss and placed us on the pedestal of hope on which we continue to rest".
As a nation, we remain deeply indebted to this generation of titans who devoted their lives to the struggle for the liberation of our people. We remain eternally indebted to them for the freedom and democracy we now enjoy. All those who have had the privilege of working with Mama Sisulu can confirm her dedication to serving the people of South Africa.
We hope that these few words of comfort will mellow your sorrows and begin the process of healing.
Akuhlanga lungehlanga; thuthuzelekani. Lala ngoxolo Ma Sisulu. Enkosi. [Kwaqhwatywa.] [Please accept what has happened as fate; be comforted. Rest in peace, Ma Sisulu. [Applause.]]