Mr Speaker, hon members, the sudden and tragic death of the Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Molefi Sefularo, came as a huge shock to many of us. Dr Sefularo was an admirable and complete package of plain simplicity, service, dedication to duty and unwavering patriotism. He had absolutely no airs and was an uncomplicated personality and his dedication to duty unmistakable.
A story is told about a priest from Molteno in the Cape who knew nothing about politics, but was nevertheless framed by the security police in Molteno and put on trial. The priest did not worry because he knew he had done nothing wrong, but when the judge found him guilty and pronounced that he would be going to Robben Island for 15 years, the priest shouted from the dock ... "UThixo akakho!" [There is no God!]
We might also be tempted to feel that if there is a God, why would he allow a servant of the people who is so dedicated to die so young? Dr Sefularo's life is worth more than a thousand lectures on socialism. His exemplary life should be put up there for us, especially the young, to emulate. Azapo expresses its condolences to his family and his organisation. I thank you. [Applause.]