Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba said the provincial government would monitor the murder case of ANCYL Limpopo PEC member Nkateko Mbhoma Maluleke closely, until the truth was revealed.
Ramathuba was speaking at Maluleke's funeral in Makuleke on Saturday (20 September), which was attended by ANC provincial and regional leaders, ANCYL president Colen Malatji, traditional leaders, faith-based organisations, and community members.
Maluleke (32) was shot dead on 9 September when the vehicle he and six others were travelling in came under fire at Leeudoringstad while en route to Kimberley for the ANCYL's national general council meeting. Two security officers were later arrested for the killing.
Addressing mourners, Ramathuba described his death as a tragic loss. "Death has robbed us of Nkateko Maluleke, and in so doing, it has robbed our province and our nation. His passing is not only a family tragedy, but a community loss. Young people are the future of this nation. If we fail to protect them, we risk condemning our country to a doomed destiny," she said.
She hailed him as "the epitome of resilience", highlighting his work in the taxi industry, at the Mhinga Traditional Council, in retail, with the EPWP, in medical practice management, and as a school-governing-body member. She also praised his community work, including campaigns to provide sanitary towels to young girls.
"He was not a young person who sat idly, waiting for the government. Instead, he sought opportunities, worked hard, and created value wherever he went," Ramathuba said.
She urged calm and patience while the police investigate the matter. "While we welcome the swift arrest of the alleged perpetrators, we won't rest until we find the truth. It is the only way the family, the province, the ANC and the ANCYL will find closure," she said.
Maluleke's sister, Talent Maluleke, described his death as a devastating blow. "Despite being young, he was a leader and unifier in the family. He was our shining star, and we still expected a lot from him. He had a bright future ahead," she said.