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On behalf of the people of Gauteng and the provincial government, Premier David Makhura has expressed his extreme sadness at the passing of the ANC veteran and anti-apartheid activist Ahmed Kathrada.

Kathrada died on Tuesday in Johannesburg, at the age of 87. This follows the surgery he underwent relating to a blood clot on the brain earlier this month.

Premier Makhura said Uncle Kathy, as he was fondly known, dedicated all his adult life to the struggle against apartheid and the building of a democratic South Africa.

“Uncle Kathy had lived a life of dedication to fellow human beings.  He served the ANC and the country with humility and always led with dignity. His values will always inform the work we do for the people,” said Makhura.

He also noted that Kathrada will remain the greatest inspiration to all South Africans.
 
Kathrada will be remembered, for the most part, as one of the eight iconic men including Nelson Mandela, Govan Mbeki, Walter Sisulu, Andrew Mlangeni, Ray Mhlaba, Dennis Goldberg and Elias Motsoaledi who were arrested at Liliesleaf Farm and found guilty on charges including conspiracy and sabotage during the famous Rivonia Trial held at the Palace of Justice in Pretoria in 1963.

Kathrada was one of those sentenced to life in prison and hard labour at Robben Island where he spent more than a quarter of a century.
The stalwart will also be remembered as an ardent supporter of human rights, for his patriotism and his special love for young people.

Our thoughts and prayers go his partner Barbara Hogan, his family and friends.

May his soul Rest in Peace!

Issued by the Gauteng Provincial Government