The Free State MEC for Sport, Arts, and Culture has told detractors and those opposed to changing the name of Brandfort in honour of the late ANC stalwart, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, to let it sink in.
OFM News report, MEC Limakatso Mahasa, whilst delivering her provincial budget speech, told Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPLs) that the new name is going nowhere and will remain such, in honour of the late struggle icon. Her statement comes after unknown assailants defaced a board giving direction to the Winnie Mandela town, in protest of the move. Mahasa says this needs to sink in as a historical mission was accomplished in honouring Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.
In September 2021, the Free State Provincial Government said it was disgusted by the defacing and vandalism of the newly erected Winnie Mandela town name board.
Premier Sisi Ntombela’s spokesperson, Sello Pietersen, told OFM News that this action seeks to defeat nation-building. The name board, that points to the R703 route leading to Winnie Mandela town, previously known as Brandfort, has been smeared by what appears to be paint. Also, part of the writing on the board has been scrubbed off.
“Concerning the ongoing restoration work at Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela’s House in Winnie Mandela town, there will be an exhibition following it’s completion. The house will be handed over to the province by the National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and Recreation. The house will be accessible as a museum for the exploration of the life and times of this stalwart in this town,” Mahasa adds.
