DIFFERENT political parties gathered to celebrate the late struggle icon, Ahmed Kathrada, at Westpark Cemetery in Joburg on 28 March.
The event to celebrate Uncle Carthy, as he was affectionately known, was hosted by his foundation, Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, which he started in 2008.
The anti-apartheid stalwart died in 2017.
ANC's second deputy secretary, Maropene Ramokgopa, said South Africans should be inspired by the life of Ahmed.
“Uncle Carthy was one of our esteemed leaders that for his selflessness, integrity, and commitment to the worthy cause serving with humanity he made outstanding contributions to the struggle to the total eradication of apartheid and also the transformation of South Africa into a united to democratic nonracial and definitely nonsexist society that today we live in,” she said.
On the other hand, DA Gauteng leader Solly Msimanga says everyone should work hard to make the country a better place, following in the footsteps of Ahmed Kathrada.
He was speaking at the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation event to commemorate his passing at the event held in Westpark Cemetery in Joburg.
ALSO READ: Amagata send thugs to early grave
ActionSA National spokeswoman Lerato Ngobeni said Kathrada’s commemoration is a reminder that all people should be treated equally.
“Let us strive for South Africa where every voice is held, every vote counts, and every citizen is treated with the dignity and respect that they deserve. Today, as we reflect on his legacy, we commit ourselves to building a more just society from his example as we confront the challenges of our time.
“We would like to know that his exemplary courage, compassion, and integrity remain relevant guiding principles today as they work through the darkest days,” she said.
Build One South Africa Deputy Leader Nobuntu Hlazo-Webster said Kathrada should be remembered for his sacrifices.
Neeshan Bolton, Director of the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, told Daily Sun that Kathrada would forever be remembered for dedicating his life to serving the country without expectations.
“He served 26 years in Robben Island after the Rivonia Trial, and he played a huge part in the establishment of our democracy fundamentally through the pursuance of democracy in this country and of device without expecting any rewards,” he said.
Kathrada was married to former Minister of Public Enterprises Barbara Hogan.
He died in 2017, aged 87.
