Community leaders remember Ahmed Kathrada
MIDRAND – Officers of local police stations and ward councillors offer their condolences to the community following the death of struggle veteran Ahmed Kathrada.
African National Congress stalwart Ahmed Kathrada (87) died this morning (28 March) at the Donald Gordon Medical Centre in Johannesburg.
Kathrada was one of the South African anti-apartheid activists who was imprisoned with Nelson Mandela and other ANC stalwarts for 18 years on Robben Island.
Kathrada dedicated his life to protecting and liberating the people of South Africa, and Midrand Reporter spoke to police officers and councillors in the Midrand area about what they will remember and miss about the struggle icon.
Rabie Ridge Police corporate communication officer Captain Mofana Matsobane Masela said Kathrada loved this country so much that he fought for its freedom and died still fighting for it, with his constant guidance of what should be done to take South Africa forward.
Midrand Police Station communication officer Warrant Officer Mmakgomo Semono said, “It’s unfortunate that we do not live forever because Ahmed Kathrada was, and still is, loved by the nation. He is a political icon that fought for [our] liberation. Today our children are free and therefore I cannot turn a blind eye to his contribution in this country.”
Read DA’s Michael Sun and EFF’s Spetlele Raseruthi pay tribute to Ahmed Kathrada
Ivory Park police spokesperson Captain Bernard Matimulane said, “The Ivory Park police joins the entire country in mourning the passing of the struggle stalwart, Ahmed Kathrada.”
Democratic Alliance Ward 112 councillor Madeleine Hicklin sent her condolences to the Kathrada family and all who loved him. “I loved and personally knew Kathrada through my uncle Denis Goldberg, an African National Congress stalwart. Kathrada was a man of integrity, a role model and never turned away from responsibility.”
ANC Ward 92 councillor Leepile Motsumi said the ANC had lost a true leader and Kathrada’s ideology and teachings would be missed, as well as the support he gave to all.
“I can only hope that the youth will learn from his undying spirit and the dedication he made and showed to the liberation movement,” said Motsumi.
DA Ward 132 councillor Annette Deppe said Kathrada was a great speaker and humble man who she was honoured to meet when he was given the Freedom of the City award.
What have you learned from the life and sacrifices of Ahmed Kathrada? Send a tweet @MidrandReporter
