Last Friday, Albert Thomani Musekwa (46) addressed a large crowd at Skoonplaas Stadium, urging government to resolve service delivery challenges in Musina. Two days later, he was dead, seemingly struck by a speeding car that did not stop to check on him.
Better known as Mapogo in political and community circles, Musekwa’s untimely passing shocked those who knew him as a jolly, approachable man loved by many.
His elder brother, Nndwakhulu Tshinyelo, told Limpopo Mirror the family was devastated. “We received a call in the early hours of Sunday that our loved one’s lifeless body was lying in the middle of the road near China Mall in Musina. There were small vehicle debris around him, including a Ford badge, suggesting a Ford vehicle hit him and drove off.”
Tshinyelo said the family could not understand how a sound-minded driver could commit such cruelty. “It would have been better if we found the driver so we could find closure. My brother dedicated his life to community development. Although he was not formally employed, he worked hard to provide for his family. We hope the police will apprehend the person responsible.”
Musekwa’s best friend, Justice Langa, recalled his friend’s vitality. “He looked very happy and energetic during the community meeting. The next day, he was vibrant in his Kaizer Chiefs regalia, even mingling and laughing with Orlando Pirates fans. He was full of life and would never leave a meeting without addressing service delivery issues. The person who caused his death must face the full might of the law.”
Tributes continue to pour in from Musina Municipality, the ANC, community stakeholders and the public. Musekwa is survived by his parents, wife Selinah, and four children. No arrests had been made at the time of going to print, but police investigations are ongoing.
A memorial service for the late Musekwa will be held tomorrow (Friday, 6 March) at the Nancefield Multipurpose Centre, and he will be laid to rest this Saturday in Musina.