Faizel Patel, Radio Islam News – 24-10-2017
The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation says it will be taking members of the Democratic Alliance (DA) including its leader Mmusi Maimane for a tour to Robben Island in keeping with the wishes of the late struggle stalwart.
The visit comes shortly after what would have been the 28th anniversary of the release of most of the Rivonia Trialists from prison, marked on October 15.
Kathrada had over the years conducted some 300 trips to the Island with guests from around the world.
In a statement, the foundation’s Neeshan Balton says Kathrada wanted the leadership of all opposition parties to tour Robben Island.
“He felt that it was essential that the EFF and DA, especially the younger leadership within their party ranks, understand that depth of struggle associated with our history, in some ways symbolised by Robben Island.”
Balton says Kathrada would often talk about the robust political debates, which were always framed by a certain respect, despite differing views.
“I think that it is in this spirit of the Island that Kathrada felt the need to ensure people from all political backgrounds, understand its story. Our struggle history is something that belongs to all South Africans and should today shape the way we grapple with socio-political and economic situations.”
The tour will be led former Robben Island prisoner Laloo Chiba, who spent 18 years in the isolation section along with Madiba, Sisulu and Kathrada,
Chiba will be accompanied by Mosiuoa ‘Terror’ Lekota, Barbara Hogan, Nelson Mandela Foundation CEO Sello Hatang and Board Chairperson Professor Njabulo Ndebele.
In August the Foundation took the leadership of the EFF for a tour of the Island.
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