UPDATE: Mass funeral for slain Rand West City councillor
Late councillor Festus ‘Mchini’ Matshogo hailed as 'leader' and someone 'who didn't take shortcuts in life' at funeral held on Monday.
There was a massive turnout for the funeral service of the late councillor, Festus ‘Mchini’ Matshogo, at the Ramosa Hall in Mohlakeng on Monday, 26 May.
Mchini, as he was best known, was the Ward 21 councillor in the Rand West City Local Municipality (RWCLM). He died in hospital on Wednesday, 15 May, from injuries he sustained when his house in Mohlakeng was attacked early on Sunday, 12 May.
Read the initial article here:
Petrol-bombing leaves Mohlakeng councillor fighting for his life
Although a memorial service was held for Mchini last Thursday, 23 May, his funeral took place four days later. The Herald was in attendance on the day in what can be described as a packed Ramosa Hall with mourners mostly wearing green, black and yellow ANC colours.
The funeral was characterised by the singing of revolutionary songs and many gunshots – which are part of a send-off since the struggle days, as he was member of the Umkhonto we Sizwe Military Veterans Association (MKMVA).
He earned the nickname Mchini (machine) for his soccer wizardry whilst being a player at Phahama Secondary School. He also excelled while playing for the then Transvaal Wanderers.
In paying tribute to the fallen councillor, the new RWCLM Executive Mayor, councillor Dumile Sithole, made a commitment that the municipality will repair Mchini’s house and also that of the neighbour.
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He added that Councillor Mchini was skilled with words and did not want to take shortcuts in life.
“He gave us as councillors support and love,” Sithole said at the funeral.
He further emphasised that the life of a leader, or councillor, is not an easy task.
Days after the news of Mchini’s death, Captain Kay Makhubela, the Gauteng Police spokesperson, said they are now investigating a case of murder and arson.
No arrests have been made as yet but Makhubela encouraged members of the community to come forward with any information whatsoever.
Information can be passed on by SMSing the Crime Line on 32211 or by calling your local police station.
