Today, the Mangaung community gathered to bid farewell to Masabata “Makgotso” Lekonyane, a beloved member of the community, whose life was tragically cut short. The funeral, attended by a large number of mourners, was marked by heartfelt tributes and a powerful eulogy delivered by Mangaung Mayor Honourable Gregory Nthatisi.
In his address, Mayor Nthatisi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Makgotso and emphasized the urgent need for communities to unite in the fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBV+F). “Makgotso’s untimely death is a stark reminder of the violence that continues to plague our communities. We must come together, as a united force, to combat this scourge and protect the vulnerable among us,” the Mayor stated.
Mayor Nthatisi also made a poignant plea to the working class, calling on them to recognize the power they hold in serving their communities. “The strength of our society lies in the hands of the working class. It is through unity and collective action that we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our people,” he urged.
In a heartfelt conclusion, the Mayor called on the community to extend their care and compassion to orphans, particularly those who have lost their parents to violence and other tragic circumstances. “Let us not forget the children who are left behind. It is our duty to look after them, to ensure they are not forgotten, and to provide them with the support they need to thrive.”
As the community mourns the loss of Masabata “Makgotso” Lekonyane, the Mayor’s words serve as a rallying cry for unity, compassion, and collective action in the face of adversity.