Tributes are pouring in for the late struggle hero Ahmed Kathrada

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Cii Radio| Ayesha Ismail| 28 March 2017| 29 Jumadul Aakhir 1438

Kathrada passed away at the Donald Gordon Hospital in Johannesburg, where he was receiving treatment following surgery to his brain.

In a statement, the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation says it’s a great loss to the African National Congress (ANC), the broader liberation struggle movement and South Africa.

Kathrada Foundation chairperson Derek Hanekom says he has lost a “revolutionary mentor and dear friend”.

“Comrade Kathy was a gentle, humane and humble soul. He was a determined revolutionary who gave his entire life to the liberation struggle in our country,” he added.

Meanwhile, acting leader of the Democratic Alliance in the Western Cape Bonginkosi Madikizela, says it’s a sad day.

“We’re saddened by the news of his passing. We know the role that he played in liberating our people during dark days. We know that at a later stage he became a voice of reason in the ANC.”

Former Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi says Kathrada’s death is a great loss for South Africa.

“We have learnt with great sadness the passing of yet another stalwart of the liberation movement. A man of principal, a man who stood firmly behind those principles and was never shaken by the powers of those that are in office today.”

Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) chief whip Narend Singh says: “On behalf of Prince Buthelezi and the IFP we are indeed saddened by the passing of ‘Uncle Kathy’. He has indeed made an indelible mark in the history of South Africa with his contribution during the days of the struggle.”

Former President Kgalema Motlanthe says: “He was always forthright… one of the favourite chestnuts that he always shared with us (sic).”

Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi says Kathrada has inspired the world in his fight for democracy.

“It’s a loss for South Africa but also the whole world. When you’re among the people who fought for freedom the way he did alongside Nelson Mandela, it inspires the whole world. We regard it as a global loss.”

“Uncle Kathy” has been described as a unifier and a moral compass.

ANC veteran Mathews Phosa has described him as a silent leader who was passionate about human rights.
Phosa adds his death is a huge loss.

“Comrade Kathrada’s departure from our shores is a huge loss to our country and people of all races, who he represented throughout his life, fighting for the rights of everybody.”

Kathrada will be buried according to Muslim religious rights on Wednesday 29 March 2017.

Kathrada is survived by his wife, Barbara Hogan, also an ANC stalwart and veteran.

Watch – Remembering Ahmed Kathrada

Source – EWN