Both the Free State Liquor Traders Association and its sister structure, Zamdela Liquor Traders Association, have extended their deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Ntate Ramolosi Godfrey ‘Page’ Nkgashe, one of the liquor trader in Zamdela, following his tragic and untimely passing, he was shot and killed in his house in the presence of his family.
The associations said Nkgashe famously known as ‘Page’s death is not only a profound loss to his immediate family as a father, husband, uncle, and grandfather but also to the broader business and community fraternity that knew and respected him.
“The circumstances surrounding his passing are deeply concerning. It is understood that prior to this tragic incident, Ntate Page had been facing serious challenges relating to tenants who continued trading from his premises despite the expiry of their lease agreement.
These actions reportedly included refusal to vacate, continued business operations, and unauthorized structural alterations without the consent of the property owner” said both associations in a combined statement.
“While we do not make any direct link between these disputes and his murder, the sequence of events raises serious concerns that warrant a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation.
We therefore call upon law enforcement agencies to act with urgency and integrity in establishing the full facts surrounding this incident. It is critical that justice is served and that the family is provided with truth, accountability, and closure during this painful time”.
As the Free State Liquor Traders Association and the Zamdela Liquor Traders Association, we further emphasize that Ntate Page’s death must serve as a lesson to all stakeholders within the liquor trading sector”.
This tragic moment must also guide all liquor outlet owners and operators to fully comply with the amendments to the Free State Liquor Act, which, from 2024, prohibit the appointment of foreign nationals as managers in liquor businesses. Any arrangements made after the promulgation of these amendments that contradict this provision are illegal.
We therefore urge all affected outlet owners to come forward, report such arrangements, and work with our associations and relevant authorities to regularize their operations in line with the law.
