The ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/ C) on Monday evening hailed the work of “one of the greatest freedom fighters”, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, taking credit for supporting the struggle against apartheid and recommitting to the ideals of the late African leader.
Member of Parliament Gail Teixeira, in her opening remarks, said the “People’s Progressive Party supported the African National Congress (ANC) back in the 1950s and 60s and was there when the apartheid was abolished”.
She recalled that on June 26, 1925 the Freedom Charter was signed by 3000 delegates.
The charter was for the people, of the people, and by the people Teixeira added.
In 1994, four years after he was released from prison where he spent 27 years, Nelson Mandela won the first all-race election and became the first black president of South Africa.
Mandela said, “South Africa belonged to the people who lived there, whether they are blacks or they are whites.”
Young people across Guyana are encouraged to research the great leader’s work and the history of South Africa.
In her tribute to Mandela, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Country Representative Khadija Musa stated that many lives over the years have been touched by Mandela’s greatness, and he inspired humanity to move on and never give up on what you believe in.
Emulate his example
“We owe it to ourselves to imitate Mandela’s teachings and examples.” The greatest memorial, Musa added, that persons can give him is to try and walk in his shoes.
PPP/ C General Secretary Clement Rohee made comparisons between Dr Cheddi Jagan and Nelson Mandela after reading his autobiography.
He said despite the fact that “these great men lived in different continents, their fight for national legacy, freedom and to work for a better future was the same; they both fought for freedom of their people”.
Rohee added that the two men shared similar experiences. He noted that when Mandela entered the ANC, it was extremely challenging for him. “The wait was long for Mandela before he could speak convincingly. Mandela sought unity and solidarity within the African nation. He was jailed, and almost three decades after, he was freed.”
Rohee stated that Mandela had many lofty ideals which he worked very hard at attaining.
Acting President Samuel Hinds, in paying tribute to the fallen leader, said it was because of Mandela’s courageousness in fighting for the freedom of South Africa, he was able to attain victory in the end. “South Africa is now a place, not of segregation but togetherness. A place where being black or white does not matter, but rather one’s commitment and loyalty to one’s fellow man and country.”
Hinds noted, “After the abolition of apartheid, the matters rising from the situation had to be addressed. There was a change in the economy in South Africa, a change in acquisition of wealth, and ownership.”
Hinds said that there was still tension despite Mandela being victorious, and he handled those graciously, leading the nation to peace and reconciliation.
In life, a person faces many challenges but one should remember persons such as Dr Cheddi Jagan, Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Ghandi, and Dr Martin Luther King. Remember the battles they fought and won, despite everyone who ever said, “You can’t do it. It’s not right. You won’t win”. Remember that those persons will forever be in our hearts, they did not give up what they believed in.
