Reflections on the Struggle and Tribute to Ahmed Kathrada – Adnaan Bazier

On a recent business trip to Johannesburg. Our MD, Hilton Davies, and myself, took a day to immerse ourselves in an important part of South Africa’s history. I found myself overwhelmed and inspired when visiting two symbolic sites in the recent history of our country – the Constitutional Court of South Africa on Constitution Hill in Braamfontein, and Liliesleaf Farm in Rivonia.

The Constitutional Court of South Africa

This illustrious institution symbolizes the ultimate beacon of the upholding of human rights and justice in South Africa. What was once a Boer War fort and jail that embodied oppression and perpetrated human rights violations for decades (including the jailing of Mahatma Gandhi), is now a representation of upholding justice and law for all living in South Africa.

Liliesleaf Farm

This farm is located in the leafy suburb of Rivonia. It was used in the early 1960’s by the leaders of the liberation movement and led to the famous Rivonia Treason Trial that defined a generation of colossal leaders that rose in South Africa.

Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu, Denis Goldberg, Govan Mbeki, Ahmed Kathrada and others sacrificed their lives to the liberation struggle so as to end Apartheid and to build what we now regard as a democratic and free South Africa for all.

Farewell ‘Uncle Kathy’

As I write this blog, it is with great sadness that we have to say farewell to one of the last three remaining survivors of the Rivonia Treason Trial. Ahmed Mohamed Kathrada also fondly known as ‘Uncle Kathy’, was one of the pillars of the freedom movement.

As his long time comrade, Mr. Denis Goldberg, has alluded, Uncle Kathy always upheld moral principles and values. He voiced his opinion on matters of inequality, non-racialism, cronyism and disrespect for the rule of law. He represented true leadership, guardianship and the conscience of the struggle of South Africa.

Current leaders, comrades, business people and ordinary citizens should reflect on another legendary Rivonia trialist leaving our midst, and what Ahmed Kathrada symbolized as a giant amongst leaders.

The tragedy we face today, is that the generation of selfless leaders seems a dying breed. South Africa is in dire need of selfless leadership on all levels – in families, schools, societies, businesses and political structures – including the government.

The question I ask myself, and so should many South Africans: “How can I improve as a selfle

ss leader and make a difference in the role I play?” Thank You Ahmed Kathrada, you will be remembered. From God we come and to God we shall return.

Adnaan Bazier