Premier of the North West Province, Supra Obakeng Ramoeletsi Mahumapelo says churches must use their historic foundation and power to pray for unity, reconciliation and peace, this as the local government elections draws to a close. Mahumapelo said this today, Sunday 17 July, while attending Bechuana Methodist Church of South Africa mid-year conference at Khunwana village, Tswaing Local Municipality.
The service was attended by the church’s Reverends and delegates from its Wolmaranstad, Klerksdorp, Taung, Madibogo, Mofufutso and Geysdorp branches, and representatives from the Barolong Boo Moshoette tribal authority in Khunwana.
Mahumapelo who was accompanied by the MEC for Rural, Environment and Rural Development Manketsi Tlhape, told congregates of the plan to invite all churches in the province to pledge for reconciliation, healing and renewal beyond the local government elections.
“As part of the comprehensive RHR programme which is managed from the Office of the Premier, we want to see all churches playing an essential role and carrying out their programmes for reconciliation, healing and renewal, this in a concerted effort to build a more united society”, said Premier Mahumapelo.
Led by the church’s President, Reverend V. J. Dliso, the church also prayed for protection of children against acts of abuse, reduction of unemployment amongst the rural communities and protection of the provincial leadership’s drivers and body guards.
As part of their personal contribution towards the Khunwana Bechuana Methodist Church’s newly built structure, Premier Mahumapelo and MEC Tlhape offered to ensure that its floor is tiled, a gesture which congregates welcomed with warm hands.
Thanking Premier Mahumapelo for accepting their invitation and attending the last day of the church’s mid-year conference, Reverend Dliso said, “You are a true leader, one who understands the importance of being a part of the community. What gratifies us most is your conviction that a life so blessed should be lived in service to others, and that in everything you do as a leader, you invite God to take control”, said Reverend Dliso.
Mahumapelo also urged congregates to honour the call to exercise their rights by voting on the 3rd of August, saying the future of local government is in their hands.
Premier Mahumapelo and Members of the Executive Council have identified churches as critical stakeholders towards the attainment of social cohesion in the province, and have been attending services of different churches across the Province.
For enquiries, contact:
Mr Brian Setswambung
Cell: 076 012 4501
E-mail: bsetswambung@nwpg.gov.za
