By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Khoisan are mourning the passing of Queen Cynthia Triegard, 54, who died in an accident between Noupoort and Colesberg on Friday.
According to police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam, preliminary investigations indicate that the driver lost control of the vehicle, which overturned due to a burst tyre.
Five occupants aged between 18 and 57 years were transported to the Colesberg Mannie Dipico Hospital with slight to serious injuries for medical attention. Khoi-san Driegaat, also known as King Khoisan SA, was among the passengers.
Sam confirmed the queen’s passing on Saturday and said Driegaat sustained serious injuries.
According to Netwerk24, speaking from his hospital bed on Friday night, Driegaat was thankful that he survived.
“When the car rolled and I was falling around, I just said: “Lord, you brought me this far. I have a mission, and it’s not over yet. Someone looked over me, and I think the Lord said I can’t go now. I still have a few things to do, but I’m grateful to be one who survived.
“I tried to hide under the dashboard. I thought I was going to die, but now I have another chance to complete my calling,” he said.
Driegaat said he was in a lot of pain. “My pelvis has shifted, and I must remain on bedrest for the next two weeks. Fortunately, I didn’t break anything, but I have bruised muscles.”
“I understand my wife is no longer with us, but I don’t have the details yet. I haven’t gone to see her yet, but I was informed of her passing, “he said.
Stanley Petersen, a member of the National Khoisan Council, says the couple was travelling from their home in Gqeberha to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, where Driegaat is facing an eviction order.
Driegaat and others have been camping on the lawns of the Union Buildings for over seven years to bring attention to the struggles of the Khoi and San communities.
Last month, the Department of Public Works secured an eviction order, giving them until Saturday to vacate the premises.