Hon Speaker, the IFP would like to extend its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Mr Nelson Diale, who died on 8 January 2015.
Having been a 20-year servant of the people in this House, and almost a 60- year member of the ANC, Mr Diale exemplified courage and his determination in his contributions to the liberation of this country from its apartheid past.
His service in this House allowed him to continue to contribute to the changing landscape of our country. His efforts reflected his desire not only to see our democracy take route, but also our people no longer being marginalised, but truly free in the country of their birth.
The IFP would also like to express its condolences to Mr Diale's political home, the ANC. He truly was a servant of not just the party but of the people.
Lastly, I would like to extend the same condolences to myself personally for having lost not only a neighbour of so many years, but also a true friend and a gentleman. I used to call him "commissar".
Mr Diale, like the late Mr Henry Fazi who was also a member of this House, was always ready to share with me his experiences both as a freedom fighter in the uMkhonto weSizwe and a disciplined cadre of his party. I will always miss those pearls of wisdom that freely flowed from his vast reservoir of knowledge and experience.
Rest in peace, Senator Tata Diale. [Applause.]