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The African National Congress (ANC) dips its revolutionary flag in honour of one of its most dedicated and selfless cadres, Ambassador Ismael Coovadia.

Ambassador Coovadia is a long-standing member of the ANC and former South African Ambassador to Israel.

This stalwart and veteran of our movement was a principled fighter for freedom and justice. He will be remembered for rejecting a gift  of 18 trees planted in his honour by the Israeli regime, on the basis that the trees were planted on occupied Palestinian land. This rejection is consistent with his principled opposition to Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands and the callous brutality that Palestinians are subjected to on a daily basis. 

As the apartheid Israeli regime continues with its campaign of brutality and forceful removals of Palestinians from their land, the ANC calls on the people of South Africa and all peace-loving people of the world to follow the noble example of principle and solidarity demonstrated by Ambassador Coovadia.

The best tribute we can pay in honour of this son of the soil is for the international community to put relentless pressure on the Israeli regime to stop its campaign of systematic repression and ruthless brutality against the people of Palestine.

As we remember Ambassador Coovadia, let us make a solemn commitment that apartheid Israel will no longer be allowed to continue violating international law with impunity. In his name and honour, apartheid Israeli must be held accountable for perpetrating crimes against humanity.

Consistent with the principles that Ambassador Coovadia espoused, the ANC reaffirms its unwavering commitment to stand firmly on the side of the people of Palestine in their struggle to achieve freedom and self-determination.

The ANC sends its heartfelt condolences to the Coovadia family, his friends and the broader democratic movement. We hope they will find solace in the knowledge that the whole nation shares in their grief.

Issued by The African National Congress