Marikana: A memorial service was held today in the North West province, where those who lost their lives in the Marikana tragedy were remembered.

Thirty-four people were killed and 78 others sustained injuries in clashes with police last week at Marikana. Prior to this, 10 other people — including two police officers — were killed.

Today, North West Premier Thandi Modise and several Cabinet ministers gathered at the memorial service to remember those killed in clashes at Lonmin Platinum mine.

Minister in the Presidency responsible for Performance Monitoring and Evaluation, Collins Chabane (who is also the head of the Marikana Inter-Ministerial Committee); Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Richard Baloyi; Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa; Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi, together with faith-based leaders, were amongst those who came to show their support for the families of the deceased.

The President of the South African Council of Churches, Bishop Jo Seoka, echoed President Jacob Zuma’s call for the nation to desist from finger-point, and to instead serve as a source of comfort and support to one another.

“Be strong, be courageous. The Lord God is with you,” said Seoka, who also used the platform to make a universal appeal for the return to the negotiation table when disputes arose between workers and employers.

A prayer was offered for the deceased souls to rest in peace and to wish those who were recuperating a speedy recovery.

The service, which was an emotional occasion for the families who have lost their loved ones, was one of several that was held around the country to honour those who died in the Marikana tragedy.