Cape Town — The passing of Tsholofelo Mandisa Modise, daughter of former Minister of Defence Thandi Modise, has prompted condolences from major political entities within South Africa, particularly the African National Congress (ANC) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), showcasing unity during this time of grief.
Tsholofelo Mandisa Modise was born under extraordinary circumstances; she entered the world on 1980, during Thandi Modise's imprisonment for her activities against the Apartheid regime. Efforts were made at the time to pressure Thandi Modise to give up her child for adoption, signifying the harsh realities faced by those involved in the liberation struggle.
Following news of her death on February 23, 2025, both the ANC and EFF issued heartfelt statements. The ANC's statement referred to the significant legacy left by Tsholofelo, highlighting how she embodied values of justice, equality, and service to others throughout her young life. “Despite this, Comrade Tsholofelo grew to become a selfless and committed young leader within our movement, embodying the values, justice, equality and service to the people,” the ANC's National Executive Committee expressed.
The ANC spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri, emphasized the significance of Tsholofelo's birth, stating, “Her birth under such conditions symbolised the pain, sacrifice, and resilience of those who fought for South Africa’s freedom.” The ANC conveyed their deep sorrow and urged followers to keep the Modise family in their thoughts, fostering national solidarity.
Adding to the tributes, the EFF's statement echoed similar sentiments, stating, “This is an unimaginable loss, and we mourn alongside the Modise family in this difficult time. No parent should ever have to endure the pain of burying their child.” The EFF called upon society to extend love and support to the grieving family, indicating the shared loss felt across the political spectrum.
Hours after the tragic news, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula paid his respects to Thandi Modise and her family, reinforcing the ANC’s message of solidarity. His visit was documented on social media, where the ANC expressed their commitment to providing support during this arduous time.
The unity between the ANC and EFF, traditionally political rivals, during this moment demonstrates how personal grief can transcend political differences. It reflects the broader acknowledgment of Tsholofelo's role and the impactful lineage she carried as part of the Modise family. Throughout her life, she has been recognized as not just Thandi Modise's daughter, but also as someone contributing toward social change.
Thandi Modise's legacy as a struggle veteran intersects poignantly with her daughter’s passing. The grief from one often fuels the community’s calls for justice, remembrance, and solidarity. Tsholofelo's life story, marked by both personal trials and her commitment to activism, remains representative of the relentless pursuit for freedom and dignity faced by many South Africans during and after the Apartheid era.
Community leaders and supporters alike have echoed these sentiments, encouraging the nation to reflect on the Modise family’s contributions to South Africa and to lend their strength and support to Thandi Modise during this time of loss.
Overall, the passing of Tsholofelo Mandisa Modise serves as both a poignant moment of familial loss and as a reminder of the struggles endured and the victories achieved by those who fought for freedom. The legacy left by her mother and the memory of her life will surely inspire future generations.