Members of the African National Congress (ANC), President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula have come under extreme criticism on the internet, this follows their recent messages of condolences to the late gospel singer, Solomon Molokoane, affectionately known by his stage name, Solly Moholo.
The singer passed away following a brief health complication after he had fallen ill while scheduled to promote his upcoming album in Botswana. Solly spent weeks in hospital and both family and friends have made calls to ask for public assistance in raising funds to cover his medical costs. This came after doctors revealed that he suffered brain damage and needed to undergo an operation that would cost around R700,000.
Following his passing, the president took to X (formerly Twitter) reflecting on the man Solly was during his hay day, and sharing words of compassion with the remaining family members.
“Solly Moholo provided the melodies, rhythms and words of inspiration and comfort, such as we need now, that was the soundtrack of faith, worship and community for millions of South Africans and neighbours in our region for decades,” wrote the president.
Similarly, Fikile also wrote to his X account: “The passing of legendary singer, Solly Moholo, a true icon in the South African music industry, deeply saddens the ANC. His voice, passion for spreading the word of God, and dedication to uplifting the spirits of many through his music will forever be remembered.”
Meanwhile, as touching as their tributes may have been, internet users were far from moved. This is because many took to their comment sections accusing the politicians of turning a blind eye to the late singer during his time of need.
One user wrote:
Hooo….wena hemanyanya!!
His family asked donations for his medical expenses …you did nothing, your government did nothing, your hospitals failed him because of poor working conditions.
Nou otla mo o ngangile Marete ka di fake grieving. pic.twitter.com/vjMawhLaLZ
— ♥️세시 ?Kate ? (@Sesi_Kate) October 2, 2024
A second person added:
You could not donate when he needed money to safe his life?
— Mabob1023 (@mabob1023) October 3, 2024
You’re a billionaire but you failed to help him while he was in hospital. Have shame ???????
— The Duke of #FreeState (@SirDavid_Dashe) October 3, 2024
Meanwhile, there has since also been a call for the government to arrange a state funeral for the late Solly Moholo.
give this man a state funeral and play his favorite song there pic.twitter.com/ewJUVShLBx
— kgadi custy (@custy_kgadi) October 2, 2024
Also see: Gospel icon Solly Moholo has died
