17 Apr 2024

Despite the unimaginable pain of losing loved ones in the Limpopo bus crash, families of the deceased have accepted their loss and are ready to face reality no matter the state the remains are in. 

The families, who had been yearning for updates on the repatriation process, finally received clarity on the matter during a meeting with Police commissioner, Ms Dinah Marathe and other government officials including members of Parliament as well as the civic leadership on Tuesday in Molepolole. 

Though the news undoubtedly compounded their heartache, the interaction between the authorities and the grieving families marked an essential step in their healing journey, however arduous it may be. 

They generally appreciated the update, despite feeling that the process had taken an emotional toll on them, prolonging their grief. 

Mr Modiko Pheto, a family member, acknowledged the painful news and expressed his fervent hope for the process to conclude swiftly, saying “it’s evident that this will be a long wait, but we hope it can be over soon.” 

He also highlighted that some family members were at risk of losing their jobs, as they had already exhausted their leave time in the wake of the incident, but were too emotionally distraught to return to work until the burial process was complete. 

“This situation has been incredibly challenging,” he paused briefly before adding, “Some of us have been unable to return to work, yet we know that the uncertainty of the ongoing process means we cannot continue to stay away indefinitely,” he said. 

In his response to the update, another bereaved family member, Mr Moeng Pheto pleaded with government officials to improve communication with the grieving families. 

He implored, “It is essential that we work together to plan the burial,” his concerns echoed those of Ms Nonofo Mmolawa, who said, “Proper communication is essential for our healing. Without it, we feel as though we are not being consoled adequately.” 

Mr Sehemo Keagakwa, echoing the same sentiments of his fellow bereaved family members, emphasised the importance of government consultation with the families in planning the send-off for their loved ones. 

He stated, “It is crucial that the government involve us in the process and give us a platform to express how we want our family members to be laid to rest.” 

Amid the emotionally charged atmosphere, Mr Ntsimane Mogotsi urged families and the general public to be patient, to allow the authorities sufficient time to complete their work. 

In a heartfelt plea he said, “I know this process has been emotionally draining for all of us, but I ask that you give the authorities the time they need to complete their work. Whatever remains of our loved ones that are returned to us, we must accept and remember them as they were in life.” 

Meanwhile, Mr Mothibedi Kgatitswe stated that the families were deeply traumatised by the insensitive circulation of images and videos of their loved ones on social media by some media outlets. 

He pleaded with government officials to hold the perpetrators accountable, declaring, “such behaviour is disrespectful and adds to the emotional pain that we are already experiencing.” 

In response to the families concerns, Minister for State President, Mr Kabo Morwaeng, commended the government and police for their handling of the sensitive situation. 

He acknowledged the complexity of the task, noting that it was unprecedented in the country’s history and involved collaboration between two nations with unique protocols. 

“While I understand the emotional toll this incident has taken on you, I must commend the authorities for their unwavering dedication and the steps they have taken in these trying circumstances,” he said. 

Furthermore, Minister Morwaeng assured families that the South African government had pledged their full cooperation to expedite repatriation of the bodies. 

“I can assure you that the South African government has committed to working tirelessly with us to facilitate the return of your loves ones’ remains as swiftly as possible,” he said. 

Minister Morwaeng went assured the families that the government would bear all expenses related to the mortuaries in South Africa and the repatriation of the bodies. 

“I am pleased to announce that the government will cover all costs associated with these processes, including the repatriation of your loved ones’ remains,” he added. 

He further disclosed that in the coming days, the government would make a decision on burial arrangements, and they would return to consult with the families regarding the matter. Ends