Chairperson, let me start by expressing my appreciation to the government for the fitting send-off given to our beloved Sister Bernard Ncube. She deserved it. The freedom we enjoy today was brought about by people like Sister Bernard Ncube.
Sister Bernard - a nun, freedom fighter and mother to many of us - was part of our struggle for freedom, justice and peace. She was so beloved by her community and comrades that her nickname was Mmarona, meaning "our mother". She was not only there for the oppressed but also for the oppressor.
The reason, I think, that Bernard Ncube was involved in the freedom struggle was because of her Christian conviction based on the principles of the Bible. The Bible teaches us to love our neighbour as we love ourselves, and she lived for that. People could not understand why a nun was not even scared of going to jail and living with death threats all her life.
Sister Bernard spent time in prison as if she were a criminal. Neither prison nor death threats deterred Sister Bernard in her convictions. It was very dangerous to be a freedom fighter at that time. It was a case of prison or death. Sister Bernard Ncube was prepared for that. Those of us who had the privilege of working with her in the UDF and in the ANC can say without any doubt that Sister Bernard Ncube was a true hero. I must say that this is a huge loss for the entire country, especially now that the country needs leaders like Sister Bernard Ncube. On behalf of Cope, I wish to express our condolences to the family and friends of Sister Bernard Ncube. May her soul rest in peace.
Hamba kahle mama. [Rest in peace.] [Applause.]
Debate concluded.
The Council observed a moment of silence in honour of the late Sister Bernard Ncube.