Madam Deputy Speaker, hon members, the family of Mama Albertina Sisulu, distinguished guests: We received with sadness the news of the passing away of Mama Sisulu. I know that there might be those who ask: How can we be shocked by the passing away of a 92-year-old person? The truth is that, as human beings, we wish that the people we love could be with us forever.
We thank the late Mama Sisulu for her selfless service to the community. Mama Sisulu was a symbol of resistance. Against all odds, she lived a full life and was able to bring up children who are leaders in their own right.
She also defied statisticians, because we are told that life expectancy in South Africa is 51 years. We are glad that life comes from God and not from the statisticians, otherwise Mama Sisulu would have died long before I was born. Mama Albertina Sisulu was a shining example of a servant of the people. Azapo appreciates the service that she rendered, including the time that she worked with the then Azapo secretary for health, the late Comrade Abu Asvat, the people's doctor.
We thank God for giving us Mama Sisulu. On behalf of Azapo, I convey a message of condolence to the family of Mama Albertina Sisulu, her political party, the ANC, and the people of South Africa. Thank you. [Applause.]