The Gauteng provincial government has vowed not to rest until justice has been done in the case of drag racing victims, whose memorial service, held in Protea South yesterday saw pupils, celebrities and community members joining government in demanding justice.
The memorial service of Andile Mthombeni, Mlungisi Cwayi, Phomelelo Masemola and Prince Mohube who all lost their lives on Monday, in Molemo “Jub Jub” Maarohanye and Themba Tshabalala’s drag racing accident, was attended by a large number of people from all walks of life that were united in their condemnation of drag racing.
Gauteng Education MEC Barbara Creecy said: “The Gauteng provincial government will not rest until we make sure that police have a watertight case so that justice can take its course”.
Creecy said she was dismayed by the contempt and disregard shown to the community of Protea by the drag racers.
“We will heed the undertaking made by the premier when visiting the bereaved families wherein she said we will make sure that those who have done this go to where they belong (jail),” she said.
In a move intended to calm tempers which were visible when Maarohanye and Tshabalala attended court on Wednesday, radio personality DJ Sbu pleaded with the community not to use violence.
“To the families; akuhlanga lungehlanga and there will be no violence. Let’s let justice take its course. Anyone who encourages violence uyisilima,” said a visibly shaken DJ S’bu.
The music industry, to which Jub Jub belongs, was represented by Doc Shebeleza who also chairs the African Musicians Against HIV and AIDS (AMAHA) an organisation of various artist that is involved in HIV and AIDS awareness campaigns.
Shebeleza expressed shock at the silence of the Maarohanye family in the in wake of their son’s horrific accident.
He also advised youngsters to be cautious of the music industry because of its penchant for substance and alcohol abuse which many youngsters succumb to.
African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) Treasurer General, Pule Mabe pleaded with the provincial government to speed up the building of pathways.
“Our message is clear as the youth league; you can’t race in the township and will be joining Congress of South African Students (COSAS) in mobilising students who will be going to courts.”
Issued by: Office of the Premier, Gauteng Provincial Government
12 March 2010
Source: Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.gautengonline.gov.za/)
