By Reginald Kanyane
GREATER Taung Local Municipality Chief Whip received a biggest send-off the Ba Ga-maidi area has ever seen. More than 1000 mourners came to a standstill when the flag covered coffin carrying the body of Lepodise Tong was put across the grave to be lowered.

A 60-year-old man was buried in Logaganeng, where he ran and played as a child.

He was described as notorius yet reasonable hero who broke the shackles of the community and became a symbol of hope and inspiration. His family wept as his coffin, draped in the South African flag, driven away six feet down the grave.

“We send our sincere condolences to his family and the people of Taung at this very sad time. Comrade Tong was one of the most trusted cadres” ANC North West Deputy Secretary Gordon Kegakilwe said.

Leaders and royalty from across the province attended the service in the capital of Ba Ga-maidi, Manthestad.

Scores of VIP members included beleaguered former MEC China Dodovu, ANC North West deputy secretary Gordon Kegakilwe, Greater Taung Local municipality mayor Kaone Lobelo, Speaker Deliwe Zethi and Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Executive Mayor Elvis Tladinyane.

Tributes flooded in from across the world in honor of Lepodise Tong.

“He worked tirelessly for the good of his community and ANC. His legacy is the development we see today” Speaker Deliwe Zethi said.

Tong started to follow politics back then when he was part of Pan African Congress and crossed over to the ruling party. He was elected as ward 14 councillor in 2006-2010. Tong was also elected as chief of referees in the region and developed football from grassroots.

“We’re very sad as we lost an icon in football fraternity. We would like to send our heartfelt condolences to Tong’s family and loved one. May his soul rest in peace” Safa Regional Convernor Obakeng Mathube concludes. -TDN Follow us on Twitter@Taung_DailyNews or @IceT_