Hon Speaker and hon members, as the days go by and we remember those with whom we have rubbed shoulders but who have since gone yonder, one asks oneself: Who is next?
Nomatyala was such an ebullient person and she was at peace with everyone. One is able to assess a person's character by the way they conduct themselves in public places or on public transport. In the bus between Parliament and Acacia Park, Nomatyala would sing and crack jokes all the way.
As chair of the Portfolio Committee on Housing, as it was called then, she showed her fairness to all members of the committee. They knew well that, as chair, she had to serve the interests of all committee members.
As the Deputy Minister of Provincial and Local Government, she was on top of the situation. When statements were made, she would rise to the occasion and respond, as the Minister in charge was held up as a mediator in Zimbabwe most of the time. She acquitted herself very well.
Nomatyala showed her true colours as a protagonist and activist for women's issues when she took over the leadership of the co-ordination of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign. She travelled across the country, calling for restraint and an end to women abuse.
We in the UCDP have no doubt that, whatever the circumstances, Nomatyala fought a good fight and ran the full distance in her quest to make South Africa a better place to live in. To her family, friends and her political home, the ANC, we say "akuhlanga lungelanga" [take heart]. May her soul rest in peace. [Applause.]