Vryburg: Deputy President Paul Mashatile has eulogized Kaobitsa Abel 'Bushy' Maape, the former North West Premier, as a disciplined freedom fighter and devoted servant of the people at his funeral service held at Huhudi Stadium in Vryburg. Mashatile emphasized that Maape dedicated his life to the liberation and upliftment of South Africans.
According to South African Government News Agency, Mashatile highlighted Maape's life as one of sacrifice, courage, and unwavering commitment to the people. He praised Maape as a revolutionary, a disciplined member of the ANC, and a loyal son of the African soil, whose legacy will be remembered in history.
Maape's life was marked by his endurance and sacrifice in the struggle against apartheid. As a loyal ANC cadre and Robben Island prisoner, he bore the scars of apartheid's cruelty and dedicated his youth to the struggle for freedom. Mashatile recounted Maape's dual roles as a teacher by day and an underground activist by night, contributing significantly to the Kgalagadi Politico-Military Machinery.
He was also instrumental in establishing the General and Allied Workers' Union (GAWU) and advancing the work of the United Democratic Front (UDF) during the period when the ANC was banned. His imprisonment on Robben Island only strengthened his resolve, turning it into a school of political consciousness.
During his tenure as North West Premier from 2021 to 2024, Maape remained committed to serving communities and promoting ethical leadership. He advocated for rural development, youth empowerment, improved service delivery, and economic justice, aspiring for freedom to manifest as tangible benefits for all South Africans.
Mashatile condemned the recent violence, including the killing of community activist Thato Molosankwe, stressing the need for ethical leadership and community collaboration to combat crime. He conveyed condolences on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, asserting that Maape's legacy would live on through democratic freedoms and the ongoing struggle for a better future.
In closing, Mashatile bid farewell to Maape, honoring his legacy of sacrifice, discipline, and service.