Deputy President Paul Mashatile has stated that the passing of former Labour Minister Membathisi Mdladlana represents a significant loss, not only for his family but also for the nation and the democratic movement as a whole. Our gratitude to his family for the privilege of sharing him with us during both challenging and triumphant times, to those among us who have benefited from his wisdom and insight,
The Deputy President delivered remarks at the Official Memorial Service conducted in the Western Cape on Saturday. The former Minister and High Commissioner to Canada, Mdladlana, passed away on Friday, October 18, 2024, at the age of 72.
The family requested a private funeral, which was held on Wednesday, September 23, 2024.
The Deputy President stated on Saturday that, in recent times, the nation has had to bid farewell to numerous stars, companions, allies, and cherished individuals who have navigated the challenging path to illuminate the journey toward democracy. Generation of revolutionaries and servant leaders whose contributions to the liberation and development of South Africa are of immeasurable significance, he stated.
These individuals committed themselves to a mission aimed at liberating South Africa from oppression.
Us with solace and profound joy is the fact that, unlike many of their peers, they have experienced the sweetness of freedom during their lifetimes. I am confident that they will narrate a story upon reaching the other side, sharing their experiences with those who were not fortunate enough to witness such a privilege.
“The individuals who have recently passed away accomplished their objectives and fulfilled their personal destinies. However, their efforts, as well as ours, remain unfinished. The vision of a South Africa characterized by true equality for all has yet to be fully realized,” stated the Deputy President.
The Deputy President stated that the late Mdladlana was a prominent figure in the struggle for liberation. The fundamental principles of social justice, which assert that individuals should advocate for the welfare of others as they would for their own. He recognized that a prosperous economy is contingent upon the well-being of its labor force. His efforts were directed towards guaranteeing that the workforce in South Africa received equitable treatment and legal protection.
His tenure, he successfully executed the provisions of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act of 1997, which is regarded as one of the most significant pieces of legislation. This Act ensured equitable working hours, appropriate wages, and protections against exploitation for workers, Deputy President Mashatile.
Mdladlana was an activist, a unionist, and a leader who successfully navigated and transcended an unjust system.
Not for personal gain, but for the benefit and advancement of others. He consistently emphasized the principle that an injury to one is an injury to all, He stated that Mdladlana operated based on faith rather than empirical observation, as articulated in the esteemed text, and conviction that South Africa would eventually attain freedom, a reality that is indeed present today.
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