BOIPATONG.-  Before making their way to the Human Rights Day celebrations in Sharpeville on  March 21, the Umkhonto we Sizwe Liberation War Veterans (MKLWV) gathered at the memorial tomb of the Boipatong Massacre victims.

Led by the ANC’s Sedibeng secretary, Jason Mkhwane, under the guidance of the MKLWV Secretary, Johannes Titus Mpondo, stood united in purpose and spirit, alongside the ward Councillor, Ntjanyana Phala, and the ward 8 ANC branch Secretary, Sbu Kunene.

They stopped and laid wreaths at the memorial tomb of the Boipatong Massacre victims, paying tribute to those who were brutally killed during the Boipatong Massacre. Both secretaries of the MKLWV and of the ANC said they became mindful of the Boipatong Memorial plaque recently erected near the Nine Eight Eight (988) Lounge.

“Recognising the significance of this location, we felt it would be disrespectful and politically ignorant to proceed directly to Sharpeville without first paying homage to the heroes and heroines of Boipatong.”

The Boipatong Massacre victims were tragically murdered in the early hours of June 17, 1992.

“The laying of wreaths was in no way intended to replace or overshadow the proper memorials and tributes that must take place in Boipatong. Rather, it was just a solemn act of respect, a salute to the people of Boipatong, especially to those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for our freedom.”