Yengeni hits back at Mbeki: "Mama Winnie was a saint"
ANC NEC member, Tony Yengeni, has expressed anger at comments made by former President Thabo Mbeki while discussing the legacy of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, during a TV interview.
Mbeki was reflecting on Madikizela-Mandela's life and mentioned that she didn't listen to ANC leaders and disobeyed orders.
Speaking outside Madikizela-Mandela's Orlando West home in Soweto, Yengeni told journalists he was hurt by Mbeki's comments.
"From our elders we expect a lot. He should know better and refrain from making such negative statements about comrade Winnie," said an angry Yengeni.
ALSO READ: Details: Winnie Madikizela-Mandela funeral
He added that Madikizela-Mandela was a saint.
"Some people are making statements against her, when she is no more and cannot respond. In African custom when somebody dies they are given respect and dignity. We mourn that comrade and we do not cast aspersions on the integrity of anyone, the statements we have heard from certain comrades are worrying us," said Yengeni.
ANC NEC members launched a condolences book as part of the many activities to honour Madikizela-Mandela's life.
#WinnieMandela Deputy President David Mabuza says Mama Winnie was the torch bearer of the struggle. pic.twitter.com/t2582W9Jj9
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) April 5, 2018
#WinnieMandela Mabuza says Mama Winnie belonged to everyone. pic.twitter.com/LI07XLsPjQ
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) April 5, 2018
#WinnieMandela Cope Leader Mosiuoa Lekota at Mama Winnie's home to pay his respects. He says in his culture it doesnt matter if people have differences, if someone has died one has to pay their respects. pic.twitter.com/d5D1WssllZ
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) April 5, 2018