The Pella community outside Rusternburg, North West, where struggle stalwart, Moses Kotane is being reburied has hailed him as a hero.
“This man is a hero. He is the reason why the ANC is where it is today. When the ANC was on the brink of collapse he brought sanity to the leaders,” says local community member, Mpho Magome.
Magome was one of the thousands who had gathered at the Pella Sports Ground to bid a final farewell to Kotane.
Kotane’s and fellow struggle stalwart JB Mark’s remains were brought back from Russia at the begging of the month. The two died in Russia while they were in exile. Kotane died and was buried Russia in 1978.
Community members say having Kotane’s remains back home would have a bigger impact on young people.
“There is a difference when someone is lying in Russia to when someone is in your village,” says community member, Sello Moalubi.
Moalubi says he is filled with joy because finally they have one of their own back.
The community says they are proud that a leader like Kotane came from amongst them. “He is a Mokwena. He represents the Bakwena’s ability to lead,” says Magome.
– By Mamaponya Motsai
