TRIBUTES have poured in for Reverend Bekizipho Khulekani ‘BK’ Dludla, who has been hailed a stalwart of faith, justice, and moral regeneration.
Dludla died on Saturday, aged 99.
Born in Melmoth in 1926, the reverend dedicated his life to ministry, social justice, and education.
He was ordained as a minister in 1955, was a central figure in the formation and constitution of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA) in 1967, and became the first president of the Soldiers of Christ Movement.
Dludla was a firm believer of education and he served as the Chairperson of Inanda Seminary from 1965 to 1981.
He played a critical role in strengthening ethical leadership and fighting for a just society.
During apartheid, Dludla provided shelter to political activists and demanded the release of Nelson Mandela. His commitment to uplifting the vulnerable extended to education, where he personally funded the schooling of underprivileged children.
Premier Thami Ntuli said Dludla’s work and teachings will continue to inspire generations to come.
“At a time when KwaZulu-Natal is grappling with the scourge of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the loss of Rev. Dludla is deeply felt. He was a moral compass, advocating for justice and the protection of the most vulnerable in society. We counted on leaders like Rev. Dludla to stand against such injustices. His voice will be dearly missed in our fight against GBV and other societal ills,” said Ntuli.
Ntuli recalled that Dludla was also a very close friend and confidant of the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
“Their shared commitment to justice, ethical leadership, and community upliftment forged a strong bond between them. Together, they stood as voices of reason and pillars of strength in difficult times. With his passing, we have lost a key role player in fighting for moral regeneration in our society. KwaZulu-Natal has lost a fearless leader in the pursuit of justice and moral regeneration. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” said Ntuli.
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Nokuthula Sibiya said Dludla had steered the university through its formative years during his tenure as chairperson of the MUT Council.
“His visionary leadership and steadfast dedication were pivotal in establishing the foundational policies and frameworks that have shaped the institution's growth”, said Professor Sibiya.
Zama Sishi, senior director of marketing and communications at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) said as the inaugural Chairperson of the MUT Council, a position Dludla held until 2000, he had demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the advancement of education and the development of the institution.
“His legacy of service, compassion, and leadership will be eternally cherished and remembered by all who know him. The MUT Vice-Chancellor, management, staff, and students extend their deepest condolences to the Dludla family and friends during this time of bereavement,” said Sishi.
Mkhuleko Hlengwa, spokesperson for the Inkatha Freedom Party said Dludla was a devoted spiritual leader and community pillar in his long life of service and faith.
“Rev. Dludla touched countless lives through his faith, wisdom, and service. We remember fondly the deep bonds of lifelong friendship and brotherhood between Rev BK Dludla and Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, and their stellar contributions as freedom fighters pursuing South Africa’s freedom and democracy. The IFP extends its heartfelt condolences to the Dludla family, friends, and the UCCSA on the loss of a great man of faith, prayer warrior and dedicated servant of the People. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and his legacy of compassion continue to inspire us all,” said Hlengwa.