Lesufi pays tribute to Solly Moholo, describes him as a 'warrior of peace'

PRETORIA - Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has paid tribute to the late gospel icon Solly Moholo, describing him as a "warrior of peace" who fiercely championed good governance and equality. 

Moholo, aged 65, passed away earlier this month after battling health issues and struggling to secure the funds needed for life-saving surgery. 

He was laid to rest on Saturday at a provincial funeral, where dignitaries, family, friends, and industry peers gathered to bid their final farewell. 

READ: Solly Moholo laid to rest: ‘Papa, I am proud of you,’ says son

Moholo, even in death, has drawn a large crowd, filling the venue once more, this time posthumously. 

Renowned for his outspokenness, Moholo wasn’t afraid to express his political views and was a vocal critic of government shortcomings.  

This was highlighted by Premier Lesufi, who addressed a packed Akasia Community Hall. 

 "Solly Moholo was never neutral on political matters. When President Thabo Mbeki was elected, he said, ‘Let’s pray for him.’ When the ANC faced challenges, he sang, ‘We will rise with the ANC," said Lesufi.