GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The funeral service of former anti-apartheid activist, Mongezi Erick Saul (63), known as Lula, was held on 31 December at Nomzamo Pre-School hall after he passed away on 21 December following a long sickbed.

The funeral's attendance was surprisingly low, presumably due to the fact that it was originally set to take place on 4 January, but the family changed the date at the last moment.

Mzuvukile Maqetuka, South African ambassador to Russia, who was on holiday back home, was also at the service to show his last respects.

Although Maqetuka was not part of the programme, he was asked to say a few words.
He remembered they met in Tanzania when Saul was preparing to go to Germany to study. Maqetuka said Saul ended up with a family in both Germany and in Gqeberha, but that he managed to unify his two families without a glitch.

Saul, who was known as a staunch, dedicated member of the ANC, was born in Zwide in Gqeberha on 13 September 1961.

His parents, Sipho and Khaxeka Saul, were originally from Graaff-Reinet.
In 1977, while in secondary school in Graaff-Reinet, he became involved in student politics and was arrested with fellow students, Xolile Mzolisa, the late Thozi Matiwana and Mthuthuzeli Tsholoba.

After their release they sought work in the Wilderness Hotel. In 1981 Saul returned to Graaff-Reinet to complete his matric and became head boy.

In 1982 he went back to Gqeberha to further his studies where he campaigned against Bantu Education.

In 1983 and 1984 student politics intensified and many students were arrested. 

Saul fled to Lesotho and then went to Tanzania to start educational training at the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom College specialising in mathematics, science and social development.

He returned from exile after 1994 and advised local politicians and raised funds. Saul also assisted learners with maths and science.

He leaves behind three children and a sister. 

‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’