‘We thought he would still come back’ – Mlangeni’s daughter recalls last moments at home
African National Congress (ANC) struggle stalwart and last surviving Rivonia trialist Andrew Mlangeni has been described as a man of honour and integrity.
The 95-year-old was admitted to 1 Military Hospital in Tshwane following an abdominal complaint.
Mlangeni died last week Tuesday.
Speaking at an ANC memorial service on Sunday, his daughter Sylvia said his passing came as a shock to the family.
“We are lost for words, I don’t know what to do.
“We all thought that he would come back because he was walking although he was being aided by us. We thought they would treat him and he would come back home, not knowing that we were seeing him for the last time.”
Speaking on behalf of the family, his daughters Sylvia and Maureen Mlangeni. A visibly emotional Sylvia recalls her dad's last day at home, saying he seemed strong when he left for the hospital and that they didn't see it coming. #RIPAndrewMlangeni pic.twitter.com/k6lV8mIeVc
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) July 26, 2020
Several top ANC leaders, including secretary-general Ace Magashule and former president Kgalema Motlanthe, were in attendance.
ANC treasurer-general Paul Mashatile said Mlangeni had left an indelible mark on the country and its people.
“Up to his last days he dreamt of and worked tirelessly of a country towards a country where all shall enjoy equality, prosperity and dignity.
“By force of example Mlangeni taught us the vital lessons of leadership, humility, hard work, loyalty, selflessness, sacrifice and above all service to people.”
Mlangeni was awarded Isithwalandwe Seaparankwe by the ANC for his outstanding contribution to the liberation struggle.
“His towering yet gentle presence in our midst always gave us the assurance that we stood on the shoulders of giants,” said Mashatile.
“We have lost a teacher, an invaluable source of inspiration and a fountain of unending wisdom, a walking encyclopedia of our struggle for liberation.”
Mlangeni will be laid to rest on Wednesday.
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The African National Congress (ANC) has announced a series of virtual memorial activities to pay tribute to the late Andrew Mlangeni. Mlangeni, who was the last remaining Rivonia trialist, passed away at 1 Military Hospital in Tshwane at the age of 95 on Tuesday.