By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
During her visit to the Masule family at 16th Selbourne, Alex, whose two members were swept away by heavy floods, the Joberg speaker Cllr Colleen Makhubele asked the residents to stay calm.
“It is important that we remain calm. This is not the time to point fingers because people have lost their lives, ” said Makhubele.
Fifteen members of the Masowe church under Kind Kupe, a Zimbabwean national , drowned after being swept away by a strong current at a baptism ceremony in Bramley Park, Johannesburg.
The prophet, commonly known as “Mvundla”, was last seen on Saturday after the tragedy.
The man of cloth has reportedly sent a voice message to his disciples, apologising for the tragedy before he allegedly disappeared.
Mvundla has apparently caused more frustration, anger, division and raised suspicion when he escaped. Some residents were baying for his life while others said the prophet was also a victim.
Makhubele, said that the city of Joburg was in mourning with everyone regardless of their nationality.
” As the city, we cannot segregate who we should support. It’s our responsibility that those who are affected by this tragedy receive our full attention.
” Everything to do with foreign nationals can be addressed after this with the right forums; the ministry of home affairs and foreign affairs.
” Let the residents respect the time of mourning. This is not our culture, it’s not African to take up arms and accuse during a time like this– it’s a sacred moment. It’s really a moment where we should all come together as one and mourn for the deceased.
” Right now, it’s important that each an everyone who is affected receive care, a dignified send-off and support that they need,” she said.
Makhubele and her team provided food packages to bereaved the families and promised to help them throughout their tribulation.
When ward 116 Councillor Adolf Marema responded to her gesture, he said: ” This is the type of leadership we want, speaker. This brings hope to us to see that you haven’t forgotten us. On behalf of the family and residents, I thank you.”
When she comforted the Masule family, Liziwe Ntshinga-Makoro, the Regional Director of Region E said she was equally affected.
” I see myself as part of this family because this has affected all of us. On behalf of the city of Joberg, our sincere condolence to the family.”
Dignitaries were pastor Ndleleni, of Wisdom of God Ministries, pastor Mabuza of Touchlife Ministries, Cllr Zodwa Tlale, Cllr Floyd Ngwenya, Cllr Sannie Mavhona , Alex Parliament president Vincent Ndima, Cllr Deborah Frasisco and Dingani Sithole ,Chief of staff in the speaker’s office, amongst others.
