As former SAA chairperson Duduzile Cynthia Memela Myeni was laid to rest at the Ngu Sports and Leisure Centre in Port Shepstone, KwaZulu Natal, many people remembered her for her strength of character and unshakeable spirit.
Politicians including Jacob Zuma and Ace Magashule were among those who paid their final respects, as on different platforms others hailed Myeni as one of the brave people who had led fearlessly. The announcement of her death was made on social media by the Jacob G. Zuma Foundation, whose chairperson she had been.
“The foundation confirms with a heavy heart that its chairperson, Dudu Myeni, passed away on Friday night. The family is still dealing with these sad developments and will not be entertaining any media inquiries. The foundation is requesting the media respect the family position,” said spokesperson Mzwanele Manyi.
Heartfelt tributes from individuals who have continued to remember Myeni for her impermeable spirit and ability to inspire others to fight fearlessly have also flooded social media.
Among those who praised Myeni on X were Black First Land First (BLF) leader Andile Mngxitama, who remembered her bravery and decisiveness.
“We are in pain! What a loss! Commander Dudu Myeni is the nemesis of Stellenbosch. Warrior! Guerrilla. Progressive black manager. Our RET force. Tactician. Brave. Decisive. You will be greatly missed, dear comrade and friend. You showed us how to lead without fear. RIP, dear leader.”
Zanele Lwana, the deputy president of BLF, said she would always be appreciative of their friendship.
“My dearest Comrade, Mme. Dudu Myeni, I am so broken to learn about your passing. You were such a beautiful human. We had such a blessed relationship that I will always be grateful for. In the politics we are engaged in, I have a mother in you, Qhawekazi! Rest in power! My Leader.”
X user @NShezi emphasised how she defended herself against criticism and stated he did not regret standing behind her. “Farewell to Mkabayi uqobo Mon Dudu Myeni. This woman was attacked and lynched, but she stood her ground. She never sold umzabalazo. I don’t regret having supported her. Lala Ngoxolo is commander of the RER forces.”
Echoing @NShezi’s comments, another user, @sheabutterhun, talked about how she fought back while she was being vilified.
“Dudu Myeni faced abuse for blocking Pravin Gordhan’s attempt to sell SAA for R51. The media and EFF attacked her character and called her names, just as they did to Brian Molefe and Matshela Koko. Molefe and Koko were later vindicated; it’s sad she never got that opportunity. She fought. May she rest in power.”
The Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
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