ALI MPHAKI
C ONDOLENCES continued to pour in last night for the Orlando Pirates number one fan Johannes Mofokeng, who died at Chris Hani-Baragwanath Academic Hospital.
“Mzion”, as Mofokeng was popularly known, was admitted to hospital for low blood pressure and diabetes last Tuesday and he died yesterday at the age of 60.
The SA Football Supporters’ Association (Safsa), of which Mofokeng was a founder member and first vice-president, has reacted with shock to the news of his death.
Safsa secretary-general Siyabulela Makunga told The Star yesterday that they visited Mofokeng in hospital on Monday and were assured he was stable and recovering. “When we heard that he had died this morning , we were all shocked,” Makunga said.
He said Mofokeng would be remembered as a man of principle whose ideals included seeing supporters united and striving for the transformation and development of football.
“He founded the association alongside prominent names in football such as Nyawana (Freddie Mashile), Saddam (Freddie Maake) and Gladys Gailey,” he said.
Pirates spokesman Mickey Modisane said: “We are saddened by Mzion’s sudden death. With Pirates competing in the Caf Club Champions League this coming season, we had hoped that he would be there to motivate our players. Our condolences go to his family.”
The SA Football Association has extended its condolences to the Mofokeng family.
Safa acting CEO Pinky Lehoko said the association had learnt with sadness about the passing of Mofokeng, “an ardent and passionate supporter of the beautiful game”.
Kaizer Chiefs fan Wilson “Ntjebe” Tshabalala said even though he and Mzion supported rival teams, he was devastated.
“I have been all over the world with Mofokeng, where we attended World Cup matches as well as Bafana Bafana games. I used to share a room with him and he was like my brother.
“I can’t believe he is no more. I am totally devastated,” he said.
Earlier this year, Mofokeng was honoured for 50 years’ service and dedication to football.
Despite his tag as an Orlando Pirates super-fan, Mofokeng surprised many when he registered as an independent candidate for the local government elections in May, although he did not win his ward in Sebokeng.
With his trademark makarapa hat, Mofokeng was a charismatic fan who was a loyal servant of the game.
He loved Pirates and was passionate about all national teams.
His daughter Thuli yesterday told The Star that funeral arrangements had not yet been finalised.
She said the family hoped that Mofokeng would be buried at the weekend.