LEBOWAKGOMO, LIMPOPO – The township of Lebowakgomo came to a standstill yesterday as mourners gathered to bid a final farewell to Onthatile Chuene, the beloved daughter of rapper Shebeshxt. The funeral service, held at the artist's family home, was filled with raw emotion and heart-wrenching moments as Shebeshxt, in a feeble state, paid his respects to his daughter.
Arriving at the funeral venue in a minibus, Shebeshxt's frail appearance was evident to all. He was clearly struggling to breathe on his own, relying on an oxygen cylinder for support. Wrapped in a mini blanket and wearing a woollen hat, he was gently lifted and placed in a wheelchair, accompanied by the compassionate care of medical staff.
Under the watchful eyes of security personnel, Shebeshxt was wheeled to the marquee where mourners had gathered to show their support and offer condolences. The sight of his daughter's coffin proved to be an overwhelming moment for the renowned musician. With tears streaming down his face, the talented songwriter broke down, and his pain resonated with everyone present.
Onthatile Chuene tragically lost her life in a horrific accident on June 9, when Shebeshxt's Volkswagen Polo collided head-on with a heavy motor vehicle on the R37 near Smelters Mine, south of Polokwane. The devastation caused by the accident was such that some family members were advised not to view her body during the visitation.
Regrettably, Shebeshxt was also unable to attend the wake, arriving when the program was nearing its conclusion. Adding to the somber atmosphere, the funeral was marked by an unusual display of tight security from various companies. Clad in armoured protection and armed as if anticipating a security threat, the presence of these personnel raised eyebrows among attendees.
Amidst the solemn atmosphere, the specter of legal repercussions loomed over Shebeshxt as police officials confirmed that they were actively investigating the tragic accident that claimed the life of his daughter. The rapper's already heavy heart now carried the weight of a potential arrest if found guilty of culpable homicide. The weight of this possibility adds an additional layer of complexity to the rapper's already overwhelming grief, as he navigates the loss of his daughter while simultaneously grappling with the potential legal implications of the accident. The investigation aims to provide clarity and justice for all parties involved, ensuring a fair and thorough examination of the incident.
While the funeral service was not intended to be a frenzy for the media, a small number of journalists present were prohibited from taking photographs, particularly of the rapper. One assertive security guard issued a stern verbal warning to a Sunday World journalist, threatening to confiscate their phone if they dared to capture any images. The circumstances surrounding this heightened security remained undisclosed.
The day of the accident had initially found Shebeshxt en route to perform at the ANC Siyanqoba Rally in Lebowakgomo, his hometown. Following the incident, the rapper was first admitted to Polokwane Provincial Hospital but was subsequently transferred to Netcare Pholoso Hospital, a private healthcare facility, with the assistance of EFF leader Julius Malema. It has been reported that Malema has been generously covering Shebeshxt's medical expenses at the private facility, where the artist is gradually recovering.
Known affectionately among his legion of devoted fans as the "President of ya ma 2000," Shebeshxt's daughter's funeral drew a large crowd. Scores of youth turned out in droves, some even emulating the superstar's distinctive style. Just a few meters away from the funeral tent, a small group gathered around a car stereo, listening intently to Shebeshxt's lyrics. They raised their glasses, filled with green and brown bottles, and spoke highly of their hero, hoping for his speedy recovery.
However, amidst the collective grief, it is crucial to remember that the day marked the burial of Onthatile, a blissful pupil according to her teachers and fellow classmates at Northern Academy School in Polokwane. Principal Margaret Lekganyane recalled the day Shebeshxt arrived at the school to enroll his daughter, an incident that caused quite a commotion.
"When the well-known rapper got out of his car, chaos ensued, bringing lessons to a complete halt," Principal Lekganyane shared. "Teachers couldn't understand why the learners were peering through the windows and screaming. Because I am not a fan of Shebeshxt's music, I couldn't understand what the fuss was all about."
She continued, "After the enrollment process was completed, he told me that he had brought his daughter to our school so that we could give her the best education. Every time Onthatile's father came to fetch his daughter, all the kids at the school would gather around his car, and there was a loud noise. We then called [Shebeshxt] to the office and advised him that next time he comes to fetch his daughter, he must come through unfamiliar entrances to avoid the commotion. One thing we have learned from Chauke is that he loved his daughter and wanted the best for her."
The funeral ceremony attracted politicians and a myriad of artists from Limpopo and beyond,each paying their respects to the grieving family. Mpho Mashabela, chairman of the Limpopo Artist Movement, took the opportunity to voice his discontent with the media and the provincial Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture.
"Journalists and some ineffective individuals on social media have initiated a campaign of defamation against artists, thereby tarnishing Shebeshxt's reputation," Mashabela expressed with frustration. "Then there was this useless MEC who couldn't assist us as artists in any way whatsoever. We appreciate her removal from the arts portfolio," he added, clearly dissatisfied with the lack of support received.
As the sun set over Lebowakgomo, the poignant funeral service came to a close, leaving behind a community united in grief. Shebeshxt's struggle to attend his daughter's final farewell served as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact that loss can have on even the strongest among us.
The memory of Onthatile Chuene will forever be cherished by those whose lives she touched, and her father, Shebeshxt, will continue to find solace in the love and support of his fans, friends, and family as he navigates the challenging path of healing and recovery. The legacy of their bond and the music that Shebeshxt so passionately creates will serve as a lasting tribute to the cherished memory of his beloved daughter.
In the face of tragedy, the strength of a community is tested, and it is through unity and compassion that healing can begin. In the days and weeks to come, may Shebeshxt find comfort in the outpouring of love and may the memory of Onthatile inspire us all to cherish the precious moments we have with our loved ones.
As the night fell and the stars sparkled overhead, the township of Lebowakgomo whispered its final farewell to a young life extinguished too soon, leaving behind a void that can never be filled. And in the midst of this sorrow, the spirit of resilience and hope remained, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the people of Limpopo.
