19 Jan 2015

The late former vice president, Lt Gen. Merafhe played different roles in many people’s lives.

He was the first deputy police commissioner, the first Botswana Defence Force commander, a member of parliament, but to his family, he was an ordinary brother, uncle, husband, father and grandfather. He was called ‘The Boss’ or Papa by his children.

One of the granddaughters, Ms Kealeboga Merafhe-Siwawa said during the funeral of his grandfather in Serowe on January 17, that she had the pleasure of being raised by his grandparents together with her two cousins.

Ms Merafhe-Siwawa described how together with her cousins grew up being raised as triplets by their grandparents. Since, her grandfather was once the longest serving Minister of Foreign Affairs minister, she said they were spoilt and benefited from the goodies that he brought from his international trips.

She said his grandfather was a religious man who was a devoted member of the UCCSA church, and would often take them along. She said he taught them the importance of religion in their lives at an early age.

Ms Merafhe-Siwawa also said his grandfather was “the most stylish old man” who would often rise early at their farms, to go to the kraals to admire his livestock.

For his part, Mr Odirile Merafhe, also said his father was a very principled man who instilled good values and discipline in their lives. Mr Merafhe described his father as ‘The Rock’, a pillar that kept their family together who was always willing to help them and those in need. He thanked all those who supported them through the difficult time and those who managed to come  and bid his father farewell.

He also applauded Batswana for having stood by them ever since his father’s sickness. A family message read by the eldest child, Ms Reobonye Merafhe, described a void that had been left by the former vice president’s death.

“It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to you today but we take comfort in knowing that you are no longer in pain and you are reunited with Nkoko Mma Selekae, your mother whom you loved dearly. Christmas will never be the same without you. We will miss your guidance, wisdom and encouragement as we maneuver through the lays of our lives. We intend to live our lives the way you taught us, to be honest, to love each other and finally to respect the leadership of this country. ENDS