By Olebogeng Molale
Councilors, community and family members gathered at the Kimberley City Hall on 14 April to honour the memory of a devoted official and Ward 1 Councilor, Bernadette Francis.
Sol Plaatje Municipality Mayor, Patrick Mabilo, led the procession and spoke highly of Francis, saying she was a dedicated and respected public servant who loved her community.
“Councillor Francis was a good person even though we differed politically because I am from the ANC and she was from the Democratic Alliance. Despite our differences, she always made sure that we put the community first, no matter what. Our Municipality has lost a great leader,” said the Mayor.
“I know that if it were not for the strict Covid – 19 regulations, this hall would have been packed with well-wishers and mourners. Bernadette was a valued comrade who brought insight, intelligence, and humor to this council,” Mabilo added.
“Her dedication to her ward was exemplary. She was devoted to her community, and the people of Roodepan will miss her greatly,” said Councilor, Gopolang Morwe.
The Democratic Alliance also expressed shock at her untimely death.
According to the Municipality’s Chief Whip, Francis was a respected, loyal member of the Party. “She was never afraid to stand up for what she believed in and she dedicated her time and energy to helping the Roodepan community. Her death is a huge loss for the Democratic Party, and it has left a hole in the ranks,” noted the Chief Whip.
Family representative, Shaneen Rifle, described her aunt as a good person who unified the family and cared for everyone.
“As a family, we have lost someone charming to everyone, a humble soul who always wanted to see us happy as a family. We do not have words to express our loss, but we believe that God will heal our hearts from this pain,” said the distraught family member.
Councillor Francis leaves behind her husband Gladwin, their two children.
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