By Akani Nkuna
The Economic Freedom Fighters has extended its condolences following the death of 10 of its members when a bus they were travelling in collided with a truck in the early hours of Tuesday morning near Vryheid in KwaZulu-Natal.
“These fighters lost their lives following a show of support for the revolution they belonged to and they must be remembered as heroes to whom we owe a great debt,” said EFF spokesperson Sinawo Thambo.
“These were committed fighters, who had attended the rally to honour the courage of the youth of 1976 and to continue the struggle for economic freedom. They died in the line of duty, and their lives will never be forgotten.”
KwaZulu-Natal transport department spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya confirmed that authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash on the R34, and proper protocols in collaboration with party leaders to identify the families were underway.
“Remember that there are relatives that must also be informed, so we are of the view that such protocol must be followed. And also we have indicated that the Road Traffic Management Corporation together with SAPS will be conducting an investigation,” he told the SABC.
Sibiya pointed out that both the truck and bus driver were amongst the 18 people who were critically injured and rushed to nearby hospitals in the Zululand District Municipality. About 22 people sustained minor injuries and six were not hurt.
Three women and seven men died.
Various political parties have sent their condolences to families and colleagues of the victims.
African National Congress spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu said the tragedy transcended party lines and the ANC stood in solidarity with the EFF.
“The ANC further wishes those who have been injured a full and speedy recovery. We urge all South Africans to keep the affected families and survivors in their prayers.
“This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the preciousness of life and the need for continued vigilance around road safety, especially during times of heightened travel following national events,” she said in a statement.
Democratic Alliance KwaZulu-Natal transport spokesperson Riona Gokool said the accident served as a reminder of the province’s inadequate infrastructure, particularly in rural areas.
“It also emphasises the urgent need for upgrading and maintenance of KZN’s road infrastructure – particularly in rural and regional parts of our province where accidents are far too common.
The DA called on transport MEC Siboniso Duma and his department to establish if negligence – whether due to poor road conditions, vehicle roadworthiness or driver recklessness – contributed to the crash.
Duma said swift accountability and corrective measures must follow.
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