Picture: Gaoganediwe Tlhareseng, who is Otlotleng’s brother

By BAKANG MOKOTO

The African National Congress (ANC) in Taung Sub-region and its alliances mourn the death of struggle icon, Otlotleng Johannes Tlhareseng. Mokgareng-born political activist was found dead at his home in Mokgareng village, near Taung on Sunday morning.

Gaoganediwe Tlhareseng who is Otlotleng’s brother, said they are deeply hurt. He further said the whole community of Taung lost a combatant.

“He contributed immensely into the fight against struggle during apartheid. Otlotleng’s strong political leadership was imperative. He assisted us a lot in grooming young cadres. Otlotleng also participated in a fight for economic development as well. I did not spend much time with OJ as Otlotleng was affectionately known in the political arena because I fled to Potchefstroom during the tenure of Bophuthatswana government.

“However, I know that he had a strong political leadership. We started to participate in politics with Otlotleng back in 1982. He contributed in recruiting new members for the ruling party and encouraged them to be card-carrying members. Otlotleng loved children and encouraged them to study hard. He also believed that the only tool to assist a black person to get out of poverty is through education,” he said.

A 53 year-old man actively took part in various schools across Taung as School Governing Body (SGB) member. OJ was also a staunch member of South African Communist Party (SACP).

Gaoganediwe further said his brother always urged ANC and SACP members to stop ‘infights’ and work together for the betterment of the communities.

“The funeral arrangements are underway and he will be buried this week. We will always be inspired by OJ’s life that was full of good leadership, inspiration and management. OJ represented the relevance of political leadership,” Gaoganediwe said.

North West Community Safety and Transport Management department, MEC and a member of SACP in Bokone Bophirima, Dr Mpho Motlhabane said Tlhareseng was a rounded activist. Motlhabane further said the deceased was an organiser and they will miss his contribution in building the alliance.

Greater Taung Local Municipality Ward councillor and ANC branch chairperson in Ward 7, Matlhomola Mokgobo said they were politically groomed by Tlhareseng.

“We regard him as our struggle stalwart in our area. He was one of those people who launched ANC branch in Mokgareng back in 1993. Tlhareseng was subjected to abuse during Bophuthatswana government, but he never nudged. He was constant like a northern star in his fight against injustices.

“Tlhareseng was our branch chairperson in back in 1994 after general elections. He was also our current branch treasurer and a secretary for SACP VD Ntokwe branch. He produced many leaders like Kgalalelo Sereko, Motseothata Mabe and Keneilwe Kgosimore including myself,” Mokgobo said.

He added that they will follow on Tlhareseng’s foot-steps to ensure that his objectives are realised. Tlhareseng was the SGB chairperson at Keseng Primary, Tlhareseng Primary Schools and the SGB member at Batlhaping High School respectively.

One of community members, Thansanqa Gulekane said: “Tlhareseng always encouraged us to work hard and ensure we improve our lives. He was a true soldier and social activist. We will celebrate his life and ensure that his objectives and visions are envisaged.”

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