Emotions as accident victims are buried

Isaac Pinielo | Monday December 15, 2014 17:01

Tebogo Letlhatsane (69) and her son, Lekgotla Letlhatsane (44) were two of the seven victims who lost their lives when a 16-seater minibus with 14 passengers onboard overturned near Dibete a week ago. They were headed for Marobela village in the northern part of the country to initialise wedding negotiations.

Three other people who survived the accident are still hospitalised, while the rest have since been discharged.

Tears, grief and a sombre atmosphere engulfed the funeral service as relatives and friends paid their last respects. Multitudes thronged the Letlhatsane homestead to bid farewell to the cherished members of their tight knit community.

The mourners, who included politicians, church leaders and neighbours, were unanimous in lauding the late Tebogo and her son as selfless and brave individuals. Born 69 years ago, Tebogo, who was popularly known as “Mma Jampo” was known for her strong faith in God and compassion to other people in the community.

“She was my pillar of hope whenever my spirits were down. She always reminded me to keep my faith in God and to pray whenever I’m troubled by anything,” said Kemmonye Dibetso, a friend of the late Tebogo.

Married to Ontumetse Letlhatsane, Tebogo is survived by seven children.

Another mourner Morgan Letsholathebe, a tearful close friend of Lekgotla said he was greatly devastated by the loss. “Lekgotla was a close friend of mine and we worked together for a very long time until we retired,” he stated.

He pointed out that the tragedy has left a void in the community as Lekgotla used  to contribute greatly to the community

Speaking during the funeral service, Thamaga/Kumakwane MP Tshenolo Mabeo, who is also Transport and Communications Minister, said the deaths of all the deceased persons came as a shock to the entire Thamaga community. He also regretted that many people continue to lose their lives on the roads of this country, noting that the government is always making efforts to make sure that the roads are safe.

Meanwhile, the four other victims of the accident were buried yesterday (Sunday), two in Thamaga and the other two in Moshupa.