Deputy Speaker, on behalf of the APC we want to extend our heartfelt condolences and solidarity to the Sisulu family as well as to the ANC. We are here passing our salute to Mama Sisulu because she stood up and fought for freedom. She belonged to a generation of leaders and activists who rose to the challenge of their times - people who served and sacrificed their personal comforts for the sake of the nation.
She was amongst the fortunate ones who fought for freedom and lived to see it, and lived to contribute to the reconstruction of the country. She was one of the MPs who set up this new democratic Parliament.
She was a leader who, in public and in her conduct, exuded humility and never pursued an overtly sectarian approach. As Comrade Dikobo indicated, in Soweto in the 80s she worked in the private practice of Dr Asvat, who was a member of Azapo. When Mama Urbania Mothopeng, the wife of the late president of the PAC, Zephania Mothopeng, passed away, MaSisulu, together with MaTambo and others, were very conspicuous in their support and presence with the family until the funeral.
We believe it is imperative for us who remain behind to carry on the struggle that those of her generation so ably fought, to be comforted in the knowledge that, as Sobukwe said, "we are nothing but tools of history". When we are gone, history shall find new tools. We believe that, indeed, her work and her life epitomise the saying: "Malibongwe igama lamakhosikazi!" [Praise the name of women!] Thank you. [Applause.]