The funeral of South Africa’s struggle icon, Ahmed Kathrada, was on Wednesday turned to a forum for the agitation for the resignation of Jacob Zuma, the nation’s
leader.
According to Africa Review, former president Kgalema Motlanthe stirred a thunderous applause and loud shouts of “yes” after he quoted excerpts from Mr Kathrada’s letter written early last year to President Jacob Zuma asking him to resign.
President Zuma was not at the funeral that was attended by thousands of mourners in Johannesburg.
The struggle icon’s family barred the South African leader from attending the funeral.
“I have always maintained a position of not speaking out publicly about any differences I may harbour against my leaders and my organisation‚ the ANC. Today I have decided to break with that tradition,” Mr Motlante read.
He went on: “And bluntly‚ if not arrogantly‚ in the face of such persistently widespread criticism‚ condemnation and demand‚ is it asking too much to express the hope that you will choose the correct way that is gaining momentum‚ to consider stepping down?”
A small group of mourners shouted after Mr Motlanthe finished reading Mr Kathrada’s letter‚ before bursting into song.
They sang “Phantsi‚ Zuma!” Down with Zuma.
Mr Motlante went on to reveal that Mr Kathrada did not receive a response to his letter.
The ruling African National Congress senior members including Secretary General, Gwede Mantashe, remained seated while members of the audience stood up in applause.
Mr Mantashe, Gauteng province Premier David Makhura, and other ANC leaders who spoke at the funeral appealed to struggle veterans for guidance.
“I want to appeal to all veterans, they have a responsibility of guiding us and all leaders of tomorrow,” said Mr Mantashe, adding that Mr Kathrada was a man who would never let anyone down.
“He would never do something behind your back and never deceive you. You always knew where you stood with him. Sometimes his words were harsh and hurtful but they were never dishonest‚” he said.
SA Communist Party leader Blade Nzimande said Mr Kathrada had left at a time his wisdom was desperately needed.
“We will continue to say no‚ no‚ no to patronage. It is unfortunate that he leaves at a time when his wisdom is needed more in our organisation.”
Bheki Ntshalintshali of trade union federation COSATU warned the country’s leaders that they “are not organisations.”
“We must separate them. Leaders will come and go but organisations will remain. No matter how popular you may be‚ but never for a moment think you are bigger than the organisation‚” Mr Ntshalintshali said.
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