Mr Speaker, at moments such as this, we are faced by the two great realities of human life, the promise and possibility of time, and the finiteness of that time.
As human beings one of the greatest gifts we have is the time given to us, and one of the greatest gifts we can give in return is the way in which we use our allotted time. Some fail to make much impression or do much in their time, others make the most of it and leave an impression on the lives of others.
When looking at the life of the hon Phungula, one cannot but realise that he made the most of his gift of time. At a young age he became involved by joining the ANC and the defiance campaign. He left his mark by being instrumental in various protest actions, such as the women's protest against the pass laws and the protests against the reapportioning of land in rural areas.
These activities led to his being arrested and imprisoned, and eventually living in exile where he was deployed in various positions in uMkhonto weSizwe.
On his return he was actively involved in the rural areas, working closely with traditional leaders. During this time and in his involvement in different activities and positions, he distinguished himself as a leader who was characterised by his warm and charismatic personality.
This life of service and dedication culminated in his election to the national Parliament in 2004. Here he served with distinction until April 2009. During his time as a Member of Parliament, he served on the Portfolio Committee on Arts and Culture and alternatively on the Portfolio Committee on Defence and the Joint Standing Committee on Defence. He also distinguished himself in terms of his leadership skills, honesty, dedication and wisdom. His was thus a life where the time that was given was used to the fullest, not only for the his own advancement but to improve and shape the lives of others.
Through his life of service to his country and its people during the struggle and in the democratic dispensation, he helped to shape his time. We can use the example of his life in our effort to exercise a spirit of service to the community.
The DA extends its heartfelt condolences to his wives, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the ANC. Thank you. [Applause.]