Mr Speaker, life and death are two very important parts of the cycle of a human being's life. For one to begin, the other has to come to an end. However, for the soul to attain salvation, we must not fall short of the glory of God.
It is on a very sad note that I convey, on behalf of the MF, our heartfelt condolences to the family, relatives and friends of the late Minister for the Public Service and Administration, Mr Roy Padayachie, who passed away tragically while on official business for the government of the Republic of South Africa. He gave of his best to whatever duty was designated for him by the hon President. The ANC has lost an outstanding, resourceful, energetic and committed character; our condolences also go to them.
From the time that he was a young man, Roy dedicated virtually his entire adult life to the advancement and upliftment of the community. Having obtained a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Durban- Westville, he went on to achieve his Master of Science degree from the University of London.
He was a man with a warm and caring heart, with a great spirit of humility, and we will definitely always acknowledge that his honour came from fighting against the injustices and inequalities of the horrific apartheid regime that suppressed and oppressed the suffering masses across the board. The late Roy Padayachie was moulded as a great hero and true citizen of humanity.
He remained totally committed to his family and all those he represented. We will, indeed, miss his militant voice of protest in the community; his commitment to the fight of the struggle was never a compromise. Like Madiba, who once said that you must forgive but never forget, Roy Padayachie was precisely this kind of amazing personality who refused to bow down to oppression and lose his self-respect.
His immeasurable commitment, in-depth knowledge and indescribable determination will also leave a legacy to all South Africans. His legacy is infused with honesty, integrity and hard work.
To his wife and family we say, may God give you the strength and courage to deal with this irreplaceable loss.
To the late Roy Padayachie: You are a great inspiration, to be emulated by future leaders. God bless you, and hamba kahle [go well]. While we all continue to mourn the death of Roy Padayachie, may his soul rest in peace in heaven.