As part of the commitment to continue honouring the residents who played an outstanding role in delivering the free and democratic South Africa that we enjoy today, the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) will honour yet another struggle stalwart, Selope Thema. A memorial stone will be unveiled in his honour at Westpark cemetery on Saturday, 19 September 2015.
Described as a visionary, a nationalist and an intellectual, Ntate Selope Thema played a pivotal role in the liberation struggle, especially on issues of land and pass laws.
He was among the brave leaders who laid the foundation for the establishment of one of Africa’s oldest liberation movements, the African National Congress. He was a strong and prominent leader in the early years of the ANC.
Born in 1886 at GaMamabolo in Limpopo, Ntate Thema was a staunch member of the Methodist Church. He was also for many years, the superintendent of the Bantu Men’s Social Club, which laid the foundation for the establishment of the African National Congress Youth League. The club, whose sole purpose was to nurture young men into adulthood, boasted a library and promoted reading and research.
Gauteng MEC for Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Molebatsi Bopape said honouring stalwarts such as Selope Thema formed an important part in preserving our heritage.
“Preserving our heritage will go a long way in teaching generations to appreciate the country’s rich political history.
“We must remember the sacrifice and the dedication to service mankind, for this is the foundation upon which our democracy is founded,” said Bopape.
To this end, Bopape said GPG was committed to honouring the heroes and heroines who dedicated their lives to ensure free and democratic South Africa.
“There is no better tribute we could ever pay to Ntate Selope Thema than to continue working side by side in our battle against unemployment and poverty,” said Bopape.
Members of the media are invited as follows:
Activity: Unveiling of Tombstone
Venue: West Park Cemetery
Date: Saturday, 19 September 2015
Time: 8h00
For media inquiries contact:
Nomazwe Ntlokwana
Tel: 011 355 2578
Cell: 083 507 8068
E-mail: nomazwen@gpg.gov.za
