BY OBAKENG MAJE
South Africans woke up to the sad news after the passing of African National Congress struggle icon, Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati.

Mompati who was born at the remote area of Tlapeng village, near Vryburg rose to fame after she participated in struggle.

Most people continue to pay tribute to the struggle stalwart that passed away at the age of 89 in Cape Town after a short illness.

Even though family members could not talk to the media, most people continue to gather at her house. Premier Supra Obakeng Ramoeletsi Mahumapelo is expected to visit the family of the struggle stalwart Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati in Vryburg at 15h00 today to convey condolences on behalf of the North West Provincial Government.

“Mama Ruta, as she was affectionately known, passed on in the early hours of Tuesday morning whilst in Cape Town to receive medical treatment after a short illness” Office of the Premier spokesperson Brian Setswambung said.

Various political parties sent their heartfelt condolences to the Mompati family.

The residents of Vryburg said they were touched by the death of Mompati and they will forever cherish her life.

“We are very touched by the death of the struggle icon Dr Ruth Mompati. She managed to united blacks and whites in Vryburg and with her pedigree, we are now one people” Eden Visagie said.

Another resident who was her church mate, Kelebogile Kgethile(60) could not put her feelings in words as she described Mompati as one of the humble human beings lived.

Dr Ruth Mompati was honoured by African National Congress in the North West where they handed over a Mercedes Benz car and the provincial government unveiled her sculpture in the heart of Vryburg.

-TDN

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