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The Congress of South African Trade Unions mourns the passing of veteran struggle stalwart Dr Frene Ginwala. The federation sends its condolences to all her family, friends, and comrades, who have lost a great champion of justice and democracy.

Dr Ginwala was one of the visionary activists who understood that education was key in the struggle against apartheid. She was academically orientated and contributed greatly to the consolidation of democracy during her tenure as the Speaker of the National Assembly and after leaving active politics.

She was an endless campaigner for a better and more democratic South Africa. South Africa has lost a great leader, a person who was passionate about a better life for all. She was part of a generation that refused to be part of a South Africa that was dominated by racism, apartheid, sexism, poverty, and degradation.

She promoted the constitutional basis for the entrenchment of a unified, democratic, and accountable state.

Throughout her many decades of service and struggle for the liberation movement and the new democratic Parliament, she was known for her fierce commitment to principles. She has an unblemished record that the next generations of activists and politicians would be wise to learn from. 

We will remember her as a courageous activist who dedicated her life to the struggle for a free and democratic South Africa. The nation remains forever indebted to her immense contribution to building a better South Africa. 

May Her Soul Rest in Peace.

Issued by COSATU