ANC stalwart Sister Bernard Ncube dies

Former ANC parliamentarian and Westrand Mayor, Sister Bernard Ncube died on the Eastrand yesterday morning.

The ANC has described the late Catholic nun as a struggle veteran and a champion of women rights in South Africa.  They also said its an interesting coincidence that she passed on during a month that honours women, a subject she was passionate about.

The ANC's Keith Khoza says: "Despite her religious beliefs she was pragmatic when it came to public policy options and thus was referred to as an unorthodox nun.  Sister Bernard Ncube spent her adult life at the service of the people of SA.  For that we are eternally indebted to her and her family."

Ncube was elected in 1994 as a member of Parliament where she chaired the committee on Arts and Culture Science and Technology.

Former colleague, Lentsoe Magatle says: "Every task that was given to her she carried out with conviction and humility.  And she was a true servant of the people.  I think she'll be sorely missed.  Very few  people like her are around today.  I think we need more Sister Barnards, Masisulus and all other great stalwarts of the struggle."

She had been referred to as being an unorthodox nun, who argued for abortion.