Zuma: Ontlametse was opinionated and dynamic
President Jacob Zuma has described the late Ontlametse Phalaste as a dynamic lady who spoke her mind.
Addressing Ontlametse's funeral in Hebron in the North West, the president spoke of his first encounter with the young woman.
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President Zuma says he realised that Ontlametse was dynamic because she said things as they were.
"I heard that that Ontlametse had a wish to be the President of the country, I then put everything aside to meet her.
"I looked forward to seeing her, I had my own impression of her, but that all changed when she walked in."
President Zuma said Ontlameste walked in very proudly when she came to shake his hand.
"I never thought she would be my friend. But we connected immediately."
Family and friends gathered this morning to pay their last respect to Ontlametse.
North West Premier Supra Mohamapelo also joined the proceedings, along with celebrities such as songstress Lira.
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Ontlametse Phalatse passed away last week at the George Mukhari Academic Hospital in Ga Rankuwa.
She had been battling Progeria for 18 years.