By Teboho Moloi
QWAQWA – Free State MEC for Social Development, Mathabo Leeto, has made a heartfelt plea to the youth to respect the elderly. She was speaking during Mandela Day commemorations on Friday, 18 July, at the Phuthaditjhaba Multipurpose Centre.
Leeto, accompanied by Maluti-a-Phofung Mayor Malekula Melato, Speaker Mandlenkosi Dlamini, and members of the royal house, spent their 67 minutes celebrating the late Dr Nelson Mandela’s birthday with over 500 elderly citizens from local luncheon clubs. They shared a meal, enjoyed gospel music, and gifted the elders with blankets.
Leeto expressed concern over the growing trend of disrespect and violence against senior citizens, condemning acts of abuse, rape, and murder that have left many elders feeling unsafe in their own homes.
“We need to take care of our elders and not kill or abuse them. They raised us, and now it’s our turn to look after them,” Leeto said.
Elderly attendees, including 87-year old Moipone Motaung, 71-year old Daniel Mokhachane, and 80-year old Piet Mosia, expressed their gratitude for the gesture, saying they were thankful to still be alive and celebrated.
