If Deputy President Jacob Zuma's credibility is in question, it wasn't evident at the funeral of former KwaZulu-Natal Local Government, Housing and Traditional Affairs MEC Dumisani Makhaye, in KwaMashu, Durban, yesterday.

The 10000-strong crowd that had packed into the Princess Magogo Stadium broke out in jubilation, singing Zuma's praises when he rose to speak.

Master of ceremonies Zweli Mkhize spurred them on in a show of support for Zuma that even had distinguished guests joining in the rallying calls.

In attendance were Agriculture and Land Affairs Minister Thoko Didiza, Health Minister Manto Tshabalala- Msimang and Public Service and Administration Minister Geraldine Fraser-Moloketi. Premiers S'bu Ndebele and Ebrahim Rasool also attended.

Within minutes of the praise being heaped on Zuma, President Thabo Mbeki, who remained stony-faced throughout, asked that photographers desist from taking pictures of him as their flashes were hurting his eyes.

Meanwhile, Makhaye's son, Xolani, told the crowd that his father had hated two things: racism and corruption.

"Our biggest challenge is to identify genetically modified comrades and chase them out of the movement. They occupy space unnecessarily, they are corrupt and lazy... as long as they get fancy cars and houses they are fine."

In another obituary, Makhaye was - described as a brave and daring cadre of the ANC, loyal and uncompromising on matters of principle and organisational discipline.

He is survived by his wife, Linda, and son Xolani.

With acknowledgements to Megan Power and the Sunday Times.