Wits community share their condolences following the passing of struggle icon Dr Ahmed Kathrada
BRAAMFONTEIN – Wits bid adieu to struggle veteran Ahmed Kathrada following his passing at the Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre this morning.
South Africans woke to the sombre news that struggle stalwart, Ahmed Kathrada, passed away at the Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre in Parktown this morning (28 March).
The community of Wits University has extended its sincere condolences to the icon’s family.
For his immeasurable contributions in shaping a democratic South Africa, Kathrada was conferred an Honorary Doctorate in Literature by Wits in 2012. “Comrade Kathrada was a globally renowned political figure, a strong advocate for deepening the practice and understanding of non-racialism, and a humble human being who always had a moment to engage with students, academics, and members of the Wits community,” said Wits vice-chancellor and principal, Prof. Adam Habib.
Also read: Ahmed Kathradas funeral at West Park Cemetery was more than just a goodbye
The late political activist, whose life’s journey has been extensively documented, selflessly dedicated his life to fighting for freedom, justice, non-racialism and democracy, for the benefit of others. He was affectionately known as ‘Uncle Kathy’ to the many who held him dear.
In 1950, Kathrada spent three months at Wits studying towards a Bachelor of Arts degree. His studies were abruptly interrupted by the political turmoil and instability of the time, subsequent to which he went into exile.
At his honorary graduation in 2012, Kathrada spoke about South Africa’s strong judiciary and legal stalwarts.
He was recorded as saying, “Since its establishment, the court has jealously guarded the Constitution without fear or favour. Some of its judgments have been criticised by individuals in government and the ruling party. A disturbing feature has been [hinting] that can be interpreted as a desire to curb the powers of courts, including the Constitutional Court.”
In the same address, Kathrada also encouraged citizens to protect the Constitution, expressly making an appeal for the legacy of the founding fathers of South Africa’s democracy to be respected, and not to be trampled upon in any way.
Habib concluded, “We commiserate with the family and friends of Comrade Kathrada, and those who knew him well.
“It is an extremely difficult loss for our country, but we take comfort knowing that his legacy will continue to flourish in the wake of his passing, that his contribution to South Africa and the world will inspire future generations, and that his commitment to non-racialism will never be forgotten.”
