MEC condemns the vandalism of the Commemorative Plaque in eMgwenya
November 15, 2017 at 09:37 a.mCulture, Sport and Recreation MEC, Norah Mahlangu has condemned in the strongest possible terms the recent vandalism of the commemorative plaque of the 1969 Waterval Boven Train Disaster.
“We are deeply saddened by the vandalism of the commemorative plaque. These acts of vandalism, barbarism and hooliganism have no place in the democratic dispensation. As the custodians of matters of culture and heritage in Mpumalanga, we encourage people to respect historical monuments,” said MEC Mahlangu.
Adds MEC Mahlangu,”It is more disturbing that the vandalism took place as the province is preparing to commemorate the 68th anniversary of the train disaster.”
The department erected the commemorative plaque in 2010 as a way of honouring the lives of the 63 miners who died in one of the most tragic railway accidents in South Africa. Four years earlier, the South African Heritage Resource Agency erected a memorial in the graveyard. “All of this was done to ensure that the disaster site is developed and promoted as a tourist destination and preserved for future generations,” added the MEC.
“Despite the destruction of the commemorative plaque, the department remains committed to transforming the history landscape of the province and to honour struggle heroes and heroines who fought against the apartheid regime, “concludes MEC Mahlangu.
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