After several days of waiting and mobilization efforts, Papa James's family finally received his remains yesterday at the cargo service at Mamory Ivato, before departure to Ambositra. "We are relieved," Mama James said, summarizing her emotions upon her husband's arrival in Madagascar. Papa James died on August 17 in South Africa and returned to his native land yesterday during a tribute organized at the Mamory Ivato cargo service at ACS Cargo.
Upon the coffin's arrival, Rossy, who was heavily involved in supporting the family, welcomed Mama James. Deeply moved, she collapsed before the two embraced. She then reunited with other family members. Rossy, Papa James's two sons, and several relatives participated in carrying the coffin. One of them, particularly devastated, continuously gazed at the coffin while crying. Several family members expressed their emotions during this tribute.
On behalf of the family, Mama James thanked Malagasy citizens, authorities, and artists who contributed to the repatriation. She particularly acknowledged the government, the Ministry of Communication and Culture, and the artists mobilized around Rossy. "We first salute the Malagasy people. We thank government members and all those who handled the procedures. Without them, the remains would not have arrived here. This is very important for the family. We also thank Minister Gascar, who awarded Papa James the title of Knight, as well as the artists led by Rossy. Rossy is Papa James's younger brother and handled everything from the start," she declared.
Touched by this solidarity, she added: "We are happy for the love the Malagasy people showed us during this great trial. We are relieved and grateful to everyone."
Mama James also recounted events marking her husband's final months. According to her, difficulties began in South Africa, where the couple had invested their retirement savings. "We had saved for retirement and invested that money. I cooked while continuing to sing and perform music with him. We built and gathered several assets," she explained.
The situation deteriorated in June with unrest in South Africa. "When riots began, everything we built was destroyed. Our property was devastated and even our cars were completely damaged. Practically nothing remained," she recounted.
Faced with this situation, the artist was deeply affected. "Papa James was ill and very stressed. Moreover, it was very cold there. He complained of pain throughout his body. Seeing everything we built disappear in such a short time greatly weakened him," his wife continued. She also noted he suffered from another illness that appeared suddenly.
Yesterday's tribute was also marked by a military ceremony due to Papa James's distinction as Knight of the National Order, awarded by the Ministry of Communication and Culture on September 4. The family plans final farewells in their village of Tsarasotra, before burial scheduled for Monday in Alatsinainy Miarinarivo, Tsarasotra, Ambositra, following ceremonies.