25 years ago the global icon Nelson Mandela was released from prison. His life was a life of selfless sacrifices, bravery and visionary leadership. He fought for the greater good of humanity and a principle that must be endured forever — freedom.
The South African democracy is a testimony of a nation that the world has never witnessed before because it represents something that is rarely seen in Africa — a government of the people, by the people, for the people. Mandela believed in championing the cause of the oppressed and downtrodden people of South Africa, asking no reward except that all people be allowed to live peacefully without the fear of aggression or dictatorship.
As we approach over 20 years of freedom, we cannot but remember our freedom fighters, drawn from all parts of our heartland characterised by a unique diversity, who underwent various sacrifices and shed their precious blood so that we, belonging to a different generation, live a better life unfettered by the ignominy of racial domination and exploitation. The debt of gratitude the we owe to them cannot be repaid.
Mandela did not betray the revolution until victory was achieved and he dedicated his entire life to the just cause of our genuine freedom. His triumph in the face of adversity and unparalleled atrocities should live on forever as a lasting tribute to his courage and perseverance.
We must always remember the freedom fighters who laid the foundation of our democracy. They gave their lives so that we could attain freedom, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, which has been granted to every South African as the heritage of free men.
— The reader is a South African based in Johannesburg, South Africa.
