Manibhen Sita (94)
It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of stalwart & activist, Manibhen Sita, (94) daughter of the legendary Nana Sita, this past Wednesday (July 7). Manibhen was arrested a number of times by apartheid forces during various anti-apartheid campaigns that she participated in. Manibhen was jailed in 1952, for 3 months, for sitting on a “Whites Only” bench at the Pretoria Railway Station. She also led the campaign in Laudium in 1984, wearing a black outfit, calling for the boycotting of the racist House of Delegates election, which resulted in a poor turnout at the polls. In 1985, Manibhen was one of those who represented the TIC at the funeral of the Cradock Four in Eastern Cape. On the way back by bus, the passengers were stopped just outside Lenasia. She and all other passengers were detained and sent to Diepkloof Prison, where Manibhen spent 87 days in solitary confinement. Our condolences to the family on the passing of this courageous stalwart. May her soul rest in peace. (Photo, Manibhen celebrating her 90th birthday at Freedom Park in 2017, organized by the Laudium Women’s Network).
*See comments on the Laudium Sun Facebook page, from far and wide, on the passing of Manibhen, who devoted her entire life to fighting for justice and equality.
Marhoom Suliman Mohammad Dockrat (66), fondly known as Uncle Solly, sadly passed away, this past Tuesday (July 6). Although he was an astute businessman and prominent entrepreneur (Fashion World chain stores), Uncle Solly was better known for the humbleness, kindness and respect with which he treated others, be it CEO’s, his employees or neighbours. He always spoke in a dignified manner and would often be seen rolling up his sleeves, voluntarily, dishing out food in kitchens at functions and even filling graves with sand during funerals.
Whoever he met, rich or poor, Uncle Solly made them feel special and elevated their spirits. Humility was his trade mark. Despite his remarkable success in the business world, the philanthropist who donated so generously to various charitable causes, lived a very simple life, wore simple clothes and even drove a simple car, as if he was just a visitor in this world, (in accordance with Islamic teachings).
Maulana Khalid Dhorat aptly described Uncle Solly, “He was the epitome of humility, generosity and kindness. He was a true leader who never showed his authority and never took credit”.
* The Laudium Sun received numerous messages of condolences, from far and wide, after posting of Uncle Solly’s passing, on our various social media platforms. We extend our deepest condolences to Uncle Solly’s family and pray that the Almighty grants Uncle Solly, Jannat-ul-Firdous.
