Mr Speaker, dear colleagues, today we bid farewell to one of South Africa's greatest sons and freedom fighters. Although Joe Mathews came from a family of stature in South Africa's history, he became a revolutionary in his own name and right. His record of performance speaks for itself. From early in his life as a student and member of the youth of the premier liberation organisation of our country, he made his mark amongst his peers across the length and breadth of South Africa.
The records of written and oral history abound of his exploits. Many of our generation, certainly my generation, learned of his work amongst cadres of the movement in jail on Robben Island, and from those who had returned from exile. We were always very proud to hear of his exploits, of how he narrated the plight of our people on platforms and under the cruel rule of apartheid.
When he had joined us in Cabinet or rather in the democratic government, his inputs in Cabinet and in other committees were scholarly and inspiring. But it was away from these formal meetings and in casual analytical discussions that the greatness of the man came out. I came to realise then, in a very small measure perhaps, how much South Africa had lost during the years of rejection of the full contributions of the darker skinned sections of her population.
The late Joe also played a positive role in assisting Raproshma between the liberating movements and other parties in the country, at a time when our country was torn with tensions, in particular along the East coast of the country. He made a number of diplomatic interventions among leaders of our different parties and worked assiduously to undermine tension.
Today our country has one less of the best of her sons. While we celebrate the greatness of his life, we cannot regret his departure. Our sympathies from Cope go to the IFP and to all of those parties, the ANC, Members of this House and others who have had the opportunity of sharing time and work with him. We particularly extend our very deep sympathy to his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace. [Applause.]