To Mrs Albertina Sisulu, family and the people of South Africa

Mr Sisulu,

Thank you for your patience and your courage and for giving hope and sense of pride to Africans all over the world. You were a true hero and will always be remembered. Rest in peace.
My condoleances to Mrs Sisulu and the rest of the family.

Katarina

On behalf of all the comrades of Metcalfe Park (Tongaat ) we want to extent our deepest sympathies to the family of the late Comrade Walter . Although he has left us his legacy will remain amongst us forever.

Farwell Comrade ...

From Ronald Press,

My heart felt condolences to the family and comrades. I first met Walter in the early years of 1950's. I felt at ease and a friend . The struggle took us to different places but our path was the same. We saw the downfall of Apartheid.
The struggle continues for a better world for all the people.

Ron Press. Bristol England.

There is plenty elite demagogues of the ANC that have been produced from the learning's of Comrades such as the late Cde Sisulu, including the President of the Country, President Thabo Mbheki.

The Constituency office of the Chief Whip of the Majority Party, Mr Nathi Nhleko and Minister of Justice Dr Penuel Maduna in the Republic of South Africa which is based in Bergville KZN, together with all ANC structures, Councillors and Administrator in this Constituency, Xolani Hlongwane, would like to send a very deep condolences to this father and soul of the nation.

His endless contribution in defining, fighting, and implementing the democratic principles of which many of us today enjoy and will continue, including the all generations to come, is deep rooted in our memories.

May the Sisulu family and friends be anointed with grace and love, for they are a notably great family to have as they are hereditary part of the family-tree that have defined what we call today the Non-racial, non-sexist and democratic South Africa.

May the ANC Spirits rest with him!

Xolani Hlongwane (Public Administrator)
ANC Constituency Office Bergville KZN

I would like to join millions of the citizens of South Africa and peoples around from Africa and the World in sending condolences to the Sisulu family and the ANC for the death of Walter Sisulu. As an inspiration to the nation and myself in particular, Sisulu who was a humble and dedicated leader will be remembered for his struggle against the odious apartheid system and minority rule over indigenous people of the southern tip of Africa. The Hero has fallen, so let us as people of South Africa and youth in particular pick up his spear and continue the quest for a better, non-racial and non-sexist South Africa. We will ever think about Comrade Walter. "Etlela hi ku rhula nhenha ya tinhenha."

Floyd Nyiko

This country will not only miss you as liberator but as a father of all nations. Your death does not mean that you have lost, you are winner.

K Batlang

My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Comrade Walter Sisulu. He was a great man and he contributed so much to this country and our history. He will be missed by all who know and love him. Lala Kahle Xhamela.

The ANCYL at the university of Natal (Durban) will be holding a memorial service on Thursday to comemorate the life of this great man.

Mandisa Khanyile

Being a young South Africa, I can only say that our country and the world has indeed lost a great leader. I will keep on fighting for the ideals that you and others stood for and that is to help build a non racial, non sexist and democratic society.

Hamba Kahle
Gavin

11 May 2003

I wish to express my deepest condolences and sadness at the passing of Comrade Walter Sisulu. I salute him as a fatherly figure and a hero.

His strength and goodness is an inspiration to us all. Years of imprisonment and pain under the apartheid regime did not break his determination to see this country he so loved, free. His involvement in the struggle is impossible to ignore due to its sheer magnitude. We owe our liberation to his selflessness and to to the selflessness of many of his comrades.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family members of Comrade Walter Sisulu as well as with his friends. As much as his family and friends will miss him, so too will this nation which he was instrumental in building.

The freedoms we enjoy today are largely attributed to the hard work and dedication of Comrade Walter Sisulu and his comrades in the struggle and so no amount of time will ever erase the memories of this giant.

Sincerely yours,

Sheikh Muhammad Masoom Bagdadi
(Muslim Theologian, member of Amnesty International & S.A. Institute of International Affairs)

Uyibekile induku ebandla Cde Tata uSisulu, sithi lala ngoxolo sohlala sikukhumbula.

From Cde S Zwane

Walter Sisulu was a titan of the struggle. A humble servant of the oppressed and exploited people of South Africa. A man who put his people's interests far ahead oh his personal political ambitions. tHere are people who live in delible marks on the sands of history and are called revolutionaries. Such is Walter Sisulu. Walter is a phenomenon. He lives foreever.

Christopher N. Qiqimana

Comrade Walter Sisulu showed in every way how life should be lived to the fullest in the service of humanity. His life is an inspiration to South Africa, Africa and the whole world and a rallying call for all suffering peoples. He will definitely be greatly missed by South Africa and the African National Congress. Hamba Kahle Comrade!

Matthew Parks
Researcher
(Foreign Affairs & Defence)
Parliament of South Africa

Where would South Africa be today if it were not for the love, humility, simplicity and greatness of Walter Sisulu?

My heartfelt condolences and loving prayers go to the whole Sisulu family -especially his loving and supportive wife, Albertina who knows what true love is. What an example was given to our beloved country by these two great people and their family.

With love,
Janaki Mackenzie

The death of Walter Sisulu is an event of great sadness for all those who were inspired by his dedication and service in the cause of freedom and justice. The glorious battle of the ANC and the anti-Apartheid Movement over the decades, which Walter Sisulu embodied in his own life, has been a continuing source of hope and encouragement for the Iraqi people, struggling to be freed from the oppressions of a tyrannical and unjust system. Walter Sisulu's name rang out loud wherever people gathered to honour the dignity and nobiltity of man; wherever brotherhood was celebrated and injustice condemned; wherever forgiveness and tolerance were exalted and rancour and hatred abased; wherever the scourge of ethnic and sectarian discrimination were condemned and equality before the law was honoured..

We of the Iraq National Congress share in the mourning of our friends in the ANC at the passing away of this towering figure, and we extend our deepest sympathies to his family, his associates, the ANC, and to the great people of South Africa

ALI ALLAWI
CENTRAL COUNCIL
IRAQ NATIONAL CONGRESS
BAGHDAD
IRAQ

In respect of the African liberation struggle, I wish to pay tribute to Walter Sisulu for he was one of the great freedom fighters and heroes of his generetion. His life has led to the freedom of a whole nation and was (and still is) a great inspiration to the people of the World. I also wish to extend my deepest condolences to the Sisulu family, and especially to Ma Albertina Sisulu.

Amandla Ngawethu!

Koen Temmerman,
Belgium.

I was privileged to meet Tata Sisulu on a few occasions, first when I worked in the elections office in the Western Cape in the local government elections in 1995 and in 1996, and later when I worked in the Office of the Chief Whip in the National Assembly under Cde Max Sisulu. On these few occasions I was given a glimpse of the insight and compassion of this remarkable leader, who could always spare the time to engage directly with me, to ask a few questions about what I was doing, and when, during the elections, I was despondent about the challenges we faced in the Western Cape, to give words of encouragement, and gently chastise me for my impatience.

His passing leaves a void in our national psyche. Our challenge is to keep alive the spirit and values that he and the other leaders of his generation imbued on our movement. On behalf of my partner Beatrice, and our children Max and Nicola I offer my sympathy and condolences to the Sisulu family. Lewis Rabkin

Lewis Rabkin

MaAfrika,

Please allow me to express my condolences to the Sisulus, and the entire ANC family. Tata Sisulu is humanity's loss, as his was a struggle towards the freedom of all, and not just a sector of society. He has always answered to the call of those who needed him during the struggle for liberation. And now he has responded yet to another clarion call; only this time never to return. God willed him to give his talents unselflessly, and to the end. It is my hope that we all have learnt a lot from this great man.

Let us keep his memory in our hearts.

May God bless his soul.

Kusapho kunye nezalamane ndithi xolani, nizole kuba kaloku lengwevu yakwa Xhamela ilufezile olwayo ugqatso kwelilizwe. Anilahlekelwanga nodwa sonke isizwe siyayizilela lenkokheli kuba kaloku imisebenzi negalelo layo kwidabi lokulwela inkululeko alinamlinganiso.

Kungoko ndisithi lala ngoxolo Xhamela , mama u-Albertinah nosapho aluhlanga lungehlanga.

Enkosi.
Ntoto Ntoto

Comrade Tata, I am happy that I am one of the cadres who once had a direct conversation with you, 2 years after your release in 1991 and I have also had the opportunity to have a photo with you which has been displyed on the walls of my house.Robala ka kagiso senatla sa dinatla.

Refentse Mangope
Randfontein Ward 16 Councilor

I have observed this leader with great admiration for his unselfish attitude to free us all from the shackles of the opressors, I wish I had thanked him personally. Nevertheless, I pray that he now has finally reached home and guards over our wellbeing. May GOD bless and give his family strength to overcome this great loss.

Steven Chetty & Family
Durban

THE SISULU FAMILY AND THE PEOPLE OF SOUTH AFRICA

We deeply mourn the loss of our beloved Comrade Walter.
We will also celebrate his life and try to emulate his positive and progressive thinking and superhuman contribution to our beloved South Africa.The membership of this branch feels with you.

HAMBA KAHLE TATA SISULU

Ward 33 ANC Branch
Greater Pietermaritzburg Region, Kzn.

For me Walter Max Ulyate Sisulu, was a giant of the liberation struggle and one of the founding fathers of South Africa's democracy.

I hope that the ideals of his struggle and dreams for justice will prevail not only in SA but in the world one day.

Val Christov,Bulgarian citizen

As a young revolutionary who has been introduced to the struggle to emancipate Africans in particular and blacks in general, his courage, discipline and dedication has insipired me a lot.

Having sacrificed his life and family without looking for personal gain but for the people of this country to be free, I salute you Cde Sisulu.

May your soul rest in peace.

Amandla
Ndoda Ngemntu, Cape town

Hi Comrades and friends

My name is Jaya and the younger brother of Billy Nair MP - Tongaat -Kwa-Zulu.

I was saddened by the news of Tata Sisulu's demise. I hereby extend my family's and my condolences to the Sisulu Family, especially Ouma Albertina and all the Comrades and friends of the ANC.

Tata Sisulu has given his life for the people's struggle and I am glad that he was around to see the freedom of our nation and he was also involved in the new South Africa right up to his demise.He has served the Human Family to the best of his ability. God bless!

We will miss a stalwart like him and may the next generations and generations to come emulate this most wonderful human being.

Hamba Kahle! Tata.

Jaya Nair
6889 Lisgar Drive
Mississauga, Ontario
Canada
L5N 6V1

Lala ngokuthula Xhamela. Eyakho indima uyidlalile. Eyakho impi uyilwile, uyinqobele thina saze sazuza sonke. Masikhala ngabe siyona. Lala ngoxolo Xhamela, lala uphumule.

Muzi Ndlovu

Once more the country is morning the death of a revolutionery who sacrificed most of his entire life for the total emancipation of the people from national oppression and economic exploitation. I am deeply touched by the loss of TATA SISULU as the member of the ANC Faranani Branch in Mafikeng.

His untimeous death has called us millions miles away to come and continue fighting the battle against poverty eradication. He is no more with us to witness when we wage another war against poverty in the next coming general elections.We are going to fight side by side and ensure that the contract we have made with the people of this country, bears fruits for ever.

Aluta Continua !

From Swayi Mokoena
ANC Faranani Branch
Mafikeng.

tat'u Sisulu, i have never known, yet i have known you all my life. i have never met you, one day i hope to meet you so i can say thanks personally. goodbye, i know you are going to rest in peace.

UCT Student LLBADMIN

My deepest symphaty to all of us who have.May his soul rest in peace.

Regards
J.M.Ncube

Where would South Africa be today if it were not for the love, humility, simplicity and greatness of Walter Sisulu?

My heartfelt condolences and loving prayers go to the whole Sisulu family -especially his loving and supportive wife, Albertina who knows what true love is. What an example was given to our beloved country by these two great people and their family.

With love,
Janaki Mackenzie

May Allagh grant him peace and his family patience in their hour of need , the nation grieves for a truly great leader , who was responsible for our freedom.

Go in peace TATA

Shoyeb Manjra

Dear Mrs Sisulu,

We write to express our profound sense of sympathy on the occasion of the loss of Tata Walter Max Ulyate Sisulu whose life will be remembered in many respects as a visionary leader and revolutionary with rare qualities of humility and spirit of self-sacrifice.

Tata Sisulu was not only a fatherly figure of the struggle for liberation but also a key player in the founding of our New South Africa. As we mourn with you, we also celebrate in paying tribute to a life of a man who though relatively less-known around the world, was indeed a legendary giant on whose shoulders others stood in order to see far. Our nation will remain indebted to him for his contribution.

Meanwhile it is our sincere hope that the sad memories fade soon, leaving only all the happy ones that you as family must have in the days ahead.

May the Almighty be your comforter at this time of great need.

Yours sincerely,

for Jamiatul Ulama
[Council of Muslim Theologians]
E.I. Bham ( Moulana)
Secretary General

Xhamela

May Ur spirit be with us throughout; in taking decisions - making policies -preparations for the next elections..... May your presence be ever felt in Luthuli House.

Ur works shall always be remembered in everyday life.

Talifhani

To Mrs Albertina Sisulu, family and the people of South Africa,

It is with deep sorrow that I learnt of the passing away of Comrade Walter Sisulu on Monday, May 5, 2003. The lifelong contribution that the late Walter Sisulu made to South Africa is priceless. I was in the University of Venda Student Representative Council in 1991, when the students there, with the support of various sectors of the university community, nominated Comrade Walter Sisulu to be our Chancellor. I vividly recall many of his visits, where his visionary leadership and guidance assisted us to meet the challenges the institution was facing at the time. Furthermore, his leadership set the institution in the transformation path to what it is today.

I commiserate with Mrs Albertina Sisulu, the family and the people of South Africa for the loss of your loved one. Even here in Hong Kong, messages of condolences are pouring in and will be delivered through proper protocol channels.

May his soul rest in peace.

Thivhilaeli Makatu
Acting Consul-General

Consulate-General of the Republic of South Africa, Hong Kong
2706 -10, 27F, Great Eagle Centre
23 Harbour Road
Wanchai
Hong Kong

To Mama Albertina Thetiwa Sisulu and children,please accept our condelences from the bottom of our hearts.May God abide with U and your family and grand-children at this time of bereavement.

To Tata Walter Max Ulyate Sisulu,U've fought a god fight and slew the Ggiant Goliath(apartheid).May ure soul rest in peace and leave for us that wisdom to take it to the next Generation.

LALA NGOXOLO...

Boss Lekhoaba and Family
Mafikeng.NW

Although I cannot claim to have met Cde. Sisulu at close range and notwithstanding the generation gap prevalent between us, as a member of the ANC, I have always felt the presence of Tata in the life of our Organization – the ANC. I testify to this experience when, although standing very far from our Leadership from the Island when they visited Dar-es-Salaam and at Conference in Durban in 1991, it was a pleasure to feel the serenity exuded by the dignity and the person of Tata.

South Africa has lost one of the Founding Fathers of our democracy.

HAMBE KAHLE SITHWALANDWE
HAMBE KAHLE QHAWE LAMAQHAWE

Vela

We wish all the strength to especially Ms A Sisulu and the rest of the family. A very great and lovely man did pass away, and we would like to thank him for all he has done for South Africa and humanity.

Goodbye Mr Sisulu, rest in peace.

Jackie Kruijer and Gert Reijs

I am honored to have known the stalwart, I am blessed to have been led by him, I am fortunate to honour him as he will be placed at his lasting rest place.

Sithi akwehlanga okungehlanga nina bakwaSisulu, anilahlekelwanga nodwa, yisizwe sonke esikhala nani. Ziyofa izinsizwa kusale izibongo, kunjalo naseqhaweni eselikhotheme. Imisebenzi yalo yobuqhawe iyohla kuze kube phakade.

Lala ngoxolo qhawe lamaqhawe, uze ukhonze koLuthuli abahambe phambili.

From: BULUNGA FAMILY, Mozambique.

The death of Walter Sisulu is not only a great loss for South Africa, but to Africans, friends of Africa and Africa. Born with the ANC, the oldest political liberation movement in Africa, Sisulu was an epitome of the entire liberation movement in Africa. His passionate commitment to the liberation struggle in South Africa became a source of inspiration and hope to many Africans during the colonial period. The death of Walter Sisulu, does not in anyway signify the death of the liberation movement in Africa. His spirit lives on and is with us he shall guide us as we strive to achieve the aims and objectives of the African Union

Oscar Gakuo Mwangi
National University of Lesotho

To Meme Albertina Sisulu, the Bereaved family and the Mighty African National Congress, Isithwalandwe Walter Max Ulyate Sisulu is no more! He taught us to strive for a higher ideal, for a society where the exploitation of human beings by others will have been eliminated.

Accordingly, through the force of example he taught us patiently to organise, mobilise and educate our people, Such was the man granted the gift reserved only for very few individuals - the ability to blend theory and practice in perfect harmony

Words alone cannot take away the pain and the grief that has overwhelmed us, but we trust that when we, for a second, shut the eye that sees only the terrifying void created by this sudden loss, and open that that shall see the glory that life bestowed on us while this noble son of our people walked among us, then surely our pain will turn into joy!

"We meet to depart, and we depart to meet again" May the Spirit of Comrade Sisulu live on for he remained firm and did not waver in the cause for ultimate justice.

Mao Shaetonhodi
SWAPO PARTY YOUTH LEAGUE
Windhoek East District

We at kagiso educational television send our condolences to the family and to the ANC for the loss of such great person in our history

To Meme Albertina Sisulu, the Bereaved family and the Mighty African National Congress, Isithwalandwe Walter Max Ulyate Sisulu is no more! He taught us to strive for a higher ideal, for a society where the exploitation of human beings by others will have been eliminated.

Accordingly, through the force of example he taught us patiently to organise, mobilise and educate our people, Such was the man granted the gift reserved only for very few individuals - the ability to blend theory and practice in perfect harmony

Words alone cannot take away the pain and the grief that has overwhelmed us, but we trust that when we, for a second, shut the eye that sees only the terrifying void created by this sudden loss, and open that that shall see the glory that life bestowed on us while this noble son of our people walked among us, then surely our pain will turn into joy!

"We meet to depart, and we depart to meet again" May the Spirit of Comrade Sisulu live on for he remained firm and did not waver in the cause for ultimate justice.

Mao Shaetonhodi
SWAPO PARTY YOUTH LEAGUE
Windhoek East District

A true people's teacher has fallen - but in victory and not in vain. His family does not grieve alone. The entire peoples of South Africa mourn and celebrate the death and life of Ntate Walter Sisulu.

Hamba ka hle qawe la maqawe!!!!

Spompo Naphakade
From Deelpan Village in the North West Province

Xhamela,you have left us a monumental legacy,which we the young ones must emulate.Your name and work will endure through all the ages.

Lala ngoxolo gorha ndini lempi ka mayibuye.

Gunnett Kaaf, ANC YL activist,Free State

To the Sisulu family,the Anc,the people of South Africa Akuhlanga lu ngehlanga,your grieve and loss is ours. Hamba Kahle Revolutionary,leader and Patriot.

Go and meet Langa Dube,Anto Lembede,Chris Hani,Joe Slovo,Solomon Mahlangu,Sipho Mutsi,Tisha Vanga and many of our Cadres.

You will forever be with us,in our march to the NDR
Thamsanqa Skele(Lejweleputswa District, Free State.

Dear Ma Albertina and family

The death of the Father of the Liberation struggle and founder of South Africa’s democratic order, Comrade Tata Walter Sisulu is a great loss not only to your family but to the ANC, South Africa, Africa and the whole world. The contribution that Tata has played in shaping the future of this beloved country cannot be over-emphasised. He has led all of us by example and most importantly recruited and developed great leaders for the movement and the country.

As a young ANC member and a proud South African, I am optimistic that his death will inspire millions of people to work tirelessly like Tata to improve their own lives. To make South Africa a better place, we must model our lives along the life of this Great Leader of the Liberation Struggle. For Tata has seen the fruits of his hard work, he will definitely rest in peace.

Mama Albertina, just know that the whole country is grieving with you and will always be there for you during these trying times.

MAY TATA REST IN PEACE

Leslie Mashishi
Ward 13: City of Tshwane

To Comrade Albertina and family

You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

His inspiration to us and the sacrifices that he made for a better South Africa will be with us for as long as God permits us to be here on earth.

He was the pillar of our nation.

God bless you and your family and our deepest sympathy.

From Timothy Jacobs and family in Hout Bay

The giant has fallen, but the legacy nurishes the remaining cadres. We will pick the spear and complete the NDR race.

Yours comradely,
Lemias Mashile

To the Sisulu family and relatives. May we first say it was for a purpose that the late have choosen to serve his country up to end. We might try to put most profound and beautiful words about his depature, but they will not change the fact what Tata Sisulu was was unique as he was.

Only his Creater and Izinyanya are the ones now rejoicing his coming home. Instead of mourning we should wish his return in dreams and visions to further advice and guide as he was guidian to all of us.

Mark Ngwenyama
Barberton Parliamentary Constituency Office.

I learned with great shock the passing away of the Great Tata Walter Sisulu. It is because of the struggles waged by people like him that we are a free nation now. He has played his part and deserves his rest. To his family I say: thank you Mama Albertina for giving us Tata- we are now free please accept my condolences. The spear has fallen!!! But it for us who remain behind to take up the spear and go forward with the battle. The struggle continues!! The struggle to free the majority of our people from poverty. Let us push back the frontier of poverty. That's the legacy Cde Walter wants to leave behind.

Mogale Phakedi
Student - National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies
Tokyo Japan

I am a Somali person living in the Netherlands. I am saddened as countless others by the death of gaint Walter Susulu. Mr.Susulu was an African hero,who fough for justice and equility for his people. This death wil be a great loss to freedom loving people the world over. Hopefully his legacy will inspire the young generation of Africans and other peace loving societies to draw on his achievement and to continue with the struggle he and others fought for.

Ahmed Khayre
Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Dear Family and Friends of Mr. Sisulu:

I am sorry to hear of the death of an ANC stalwart and South African hero.

Yours for a more human(e) world,
Bans
St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2640
persaudbn@GBRonline.com
www.gbronline.com/persaudbn/

Dr. Marcellette G. Williams
Past Chancellor
Senior Vice President for International Relations
University of Massachusetts
Amherst, MA 01003

E-mail: mwilliams@chancellor.umass.edu
Fax: +413 259-1873

May 6, 2003

To the family of the Honourable Walter Sisulu:

Walter Sisulu! Akekho ofana naye!

We are deeply saddened by the death of your husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, son of South Africa, citizen of humanity--Walter Sisulu, a man whose life we shall ever strive to emulate as the supreme lesson in the triumph of the human spirit.

In 1976 from Robben Island he posed the question that seemed to guide his life: “Wherein lies the unity of the world?” This is how he answered the question:

“The unity of the world is not to be found in any community of interests between imperialists, nor can it reside in any hopes of harmony between oppressed and oppressors. The unity of the world is embedded in the forces striving against exploitation and oppression, against imperialism. The struggles of the oppressed and exploited, issuing in national and social revolutions, are giving birth to a new world, the world of peace and friendship between the peoples of the world, of freedom and national independence. And every blow struck against oppression and exploitation hammers out the new era. These are the forces whose community of interests rests neither on rivalry nor oppression nor exploitation, but on the realization of humankind’s humanity.”

Walter Sisulu! Akekho ofana naye!

Albertina Sisulu, your words in a birthday greeting to your imprisoned husband emphasized his singularity. You wrote: “A man like you has not yet been born. Perhaps with the coming generation there will be a lucky woman who will give birth to a child of your qualities.”

Walter Sisulu! Akekho ofana naye!

Had his own mother known on May 18, 1912, as she laboured in Engcobo in the Transkei, that she was giving birth to someone whose life of service, lived values and wisdom would constitute such an exemplar for so many, she might never have even experienced the pain of that childbirth, for she would have been overwhelmed by a more enormous sensation of pride, respect, admiration, and gratitude for the new life whose entrance into the world she was privileged to assist.

Walter Sisulu! Akekho ofana naye!

Walter Sisulu’s life demonstrated his understanding of service to and for the people as the singular human experience that bestows to our persons the full currency of the human phenomenon.

Walter Sisulu! Akekho ofana naye!

Would that we could be there with all of you now. There is some consolation knowing that we are part of that collective mourning process because we are human. And in our shared grief we will muster the courage and resolve to enable the triumph of our fundamental humanity as a fitting tribute to Walter Sisulu’s life. Albertina Sisulu, you have said it for us, as Elinor Sisulu has quoted: “We are each required to walk our own road…and then stop, assess what we have learned and share it with others. It is only in this way that the next generation can learn from those who have walked before them, so that they can take the journey forward after we can no longer continue. We can do no more than tell our story—it is then up to them to make of it what they will.” To you and to him, we are grateful.

Sincerely,

Dr. Marcellette G. Williams
Past Chancellor and Senior Vice President for International Relations
University of Massachusetts
Amherst, MA 01003

To Ma Sisulu and family

Our deep condolences at the loss of your dear husband and father. Tata Sisulu was also our dear father, comrade and leader. His dedication and spirit kept us strong through many years of hardship. His words and deeds will always remain with us and will continue to influence our lives and that of our children.

We keep you close in our hearts and prayers through this difficult time. We love you Mama.

From:
Anthea Sheldon (Deputy Mayor - Drakenstein Municipality)
Craig Sheldon (Councillor - Drakenstein Municipality)
Timothy Sheldon
Matthew Sheldon
Mary Johnson

from Paarl, Western Cape Province

To Ma Albertina Sisulu and family – our thoughts are with you. We will continue to remember Tata for the legacy that he has left us. God be with you and your family.

Vinesh Ramdial & family, KwaDukuza

Comrades, Bereaved Family and all sympathisers

Allow me to express my heartfelt condolences to the entire people of the African Region on the untimely departure of one of the greatest sons of the soil.

The late Walter Sisulu was a stalwart, veteran and a hero of our struggle. He was one of the leaders who stood the test of time. From Rivonia to Robben Island Prison.

He has left his noble mark in the African politics. Never will be the history of RSA written without mentioning the surname Sisulu.

May His Soul Rest in Peace

Simon J. /UIrab
African Scholar

Firslty I would like to send my message of condolence to the family of Mr. W. Sisulu. We are all with you in sad moment of the loss of our beloved father. We are grateful to the Sisulu family for letting your father to lead our nation from the reigns of Apartheid oppresion. Comrade Walter Sisulu has inspired millions of our people and will remain in our memories for his humility, his leadership skills and the his commitment and loyalty to his people.

We all have a responsibilty to follow the example that Comrade Walter left us and accomplish the total liberation of people.

Long live the spirit of Comrade Walter Sisulu

Z.J. Ngcobondwana

As a Brach member of the Elrich Du Plesis ANC would I like to send my condolences to the Sisulu Family. He was true, unselfish leader indeed. My God be with you through this time of mourning.

Comrade L. Jonas - Plettenberg Bay

Nilale ngenxeba maXhamela amahle.

King Kumalo
KwaZulu-Natal

Comrades and the Sisulu Family,

Heartfelt condolences for the loss of a legendary hero. We will continue to be inspired by Cde Walter Sisulu throughout our work and our lifetimes.

All at Ndima Community Services

Muanalo Mudau-Dyer (Ms)
CO-ORDINATOR
Ndima Community Services
#21 Company
Reg. No. 99/18383/08
Non-profit Organisation
Reg. No. 013-792 NPO

P.O. Box 1518
Louis Trichardt 0920
SOUTH AFRICA
Tel +27 (0)15 516 5456
Fax +27 (0)15 516 5556
E-mail muanalo@ndima.org.za

To the Sisulu family and the entire African National Congress and alliance partners, God has taken what He has given. I personally do not know our late Grandfather,mentor and liberator but i have him through my participation within the ANC structures. Cde Walter's ideas,conviction and inclination has inspired most of us to soldier on during hard times of the brutal and repressive apartheid regime. Today we have attained our Freedom but that must not mean that we must rest on our laurels otherwise we would be committing a Political suicide towards what Cde Walter had stood for the rest of his life. Cdes and all freedom loving people of this country we must now make a final trust of our Emancipation. We must fight careerism, corruption and political opportunism and bickerying amongst ourselves and within our ranks. In the words of the late Cde Oliver Tambo he said "The ANC does not have enemies but it is its worst enemy" meaning only the ANC can and will destroy itself.

With this words i pass my sincere condolences to the Sisulu family and they must know that they are not alone in this our of need.

MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE.

>From Cde Michael Bogogolela.

Dear Sisulu Family,

sono addolorato ogni volta che se ne va dal Pianeta uno dei suoi Buoni Difensori. La foto di Mr. Sisulu con la moglie fa capire quanto siano due Buoni (fra l'altro la vecchiaia addolcisce ancora di più il viso dei neri). Sto scrivendo qualche riga sull'ANC per un'enciclopedia e mi sono messo a immaginare l'impresa realizzata da Sisulu Mandela e i loro i compagni. Ho sentito i profumi dell'Africa che io non conosco e non ho mai potuto sentire.

Grazie Mr Sisulu per aver fatto vivere l'Africa ancora, anche per me.

Roberto Agostini, Milano, Italy

Hi Comrade

It is with a great sadness that I learnt about the death of Tata Sisulu. Our prayers are with the Sisulu family as well as the ANC during this trying times on the death of a Husband, a Father, a Grand-Father, a Leader, a Cadre and a Revolutionary. Rest in peace Xhamela! Nokwindla! Ncancashe!

Poem The tree has fallen

With sympathy

By: Bambiso William Vass
Cell No.: 0721811893
2 Busoshe Road
Tyutyu North
Bisho
5605

In respect of the African liberation struggle, I wish to pay tribute to Walter Sisulu for he was one of the great freedom fighters and heroes of his generetion. His life has led to the freedom of a whole nation and was (and still is) a great inspiration to the people of the World. I also wish to extend my deepest condolences to the Sisulu family, and especially to Ma Albertina Sisulu.

Amandla Ngawethu!

Koen Temmerman,
Belgium.

I was privileged to meet Tata Sisulu on a few occasions, first when I worked in the elections office in the Western Cape in the local government elections in 1995 and in 1996, and later when I worked in the Office of the Chief Whip in the National Assembly under Cde Max Sisulu.

On these few occasions I was given a glimpse of the insight and compassion of this remarkable leader, who could always spare the time to engage directly with me, to ask a few questions about what I was doing, and when, during the elections, I was despondent about the challenges we faced in the Western Cape, to give words of encouragement, and gently chastise me for my impatience.

His passing leaves a void in our national psyche. Our challenge is to keep alive the spirit and values that he and the other leaders of his generation imbued on our movement.

On behalf of my partner Beatrice, and our children Max and Nicola I offer my sympathy and condolences to the Sisulu family.

Lewis Rabkin

May your soul rest in peace, u hi kombile ndlela leyinene kokwana, hi ta tshama hi ku tsundzuka hi masiku ni minkarhi.

Jamela Mhlarhi

Walter Sisulu. One of the wisest and the best. Bernard Gosschalk.
Secretary. Cape Town Congress of Democrats. 1955-66

Mary Turok

Tsamay ha ntle ntate, we as ANC Cape Agulhas, will think of you, may our God make your family strong, and they must go on fighting for the people of South Africa.

Reynold Stevens

Sisulu's and ANC as a whole' South African Express Airways employees would like to send their heartfelt condolences to all of you.

Warm Regards
Boni Dibate

Max

Kuwe nabantakwenu nodadebakho
Lilele ixhego kodwa imisebenzi yakhe iyakuphila kwizizukulwane ngezizukulwane
Ntanga qina!
Ubawo uXhama akashiyanga nina kuphela,siselusizini sonke,kodwa sobe sigobe imibombo kwakhona.

Mntakwenda

To Mama and the ANC

Duduzekani!!!

UTata has truly shown us that the act of loving is an act of self evolution even when the purpose of the act is someone else's growth. Let US ALL IN THE MOVEMENT REDEDICATE OURSELVES AND EMULATE HIM.

Lala ngoxolo Xamela

Mbuyazwe Mpembe (HQ)

A leader of this great liberation movement, a compatriot, a revolutionay of our people, a loving and caring father has fallen.

May his soul rest in peace.

We will always remember him and cherish his ideals.

Hamba kahle Qhawe lama Qhawe!! Siyohlala sikukhumbula!!

Uze usikhonzele kwamanye amaqhawe afana no OR Tambo, Joe Slovo, Chris Hani, Moses Kotane, Moses Mabhida, Govan Mbeki etc

Sizwe Shezi
Durban

Hi

The passing away of a great leader such as this one leaves us with sadness as the South African youth even though we knew at some point it had to happen.However the spirit of these greats inclusive of Chris Hani ,Tambo, Joe Slovo,Mandela that I have seen in my time have left an indelible mark in my mind that the task of defending what we have gained ,rests with us the youth ,in particular the Black youth-to struggle to transform our society and ensure it never goes back to what the situation was like when these death defying giants took the struggle forward

As this great leader rests in his grave,I rededicate myself and to do more for the noble cause they stood for.

Rest in Peace Tata

Malizo Sinono

The Tripartite Family;

Emulating the words of Eddie Daniels a friend to uBawo uXhamela "Sisulu was the wind beneath wings of the ANC", swift and gentle dare not compare to his character, gargantuan and being a peoples hero dare not compare to his wisdom, he was like others of his time an engineer of our destiny.

He is an enigma that has treaded the measure of time, South Africa has lost a father, comrade and above all one of its pillars, yes he was a pillar to those wrecked families which sought from crumbs to survive, to organizations which before his guidance lacked the vision that be suited our country, he was the wind beneath the wings of our democracy.

Bawo Xhamela ngawe zicimile intlantsi zabacinezeli, ngawe kuvelile ukukhanya kumzi ontsundu, Hamba kakuhle Qhawe lamaQhawe,wena Davide kwisizwe esigcwele ooGoliyathi,wena Mosisi kwisizwe esigcwele ooFaro.

Wazi ukuba ikhandlela osinike lona soze licime,ubugorha bakho bakuba yimbali yezizwe ngezizwe kwiminyaka eliwaka, nendlela oyihambileyo iyakuba yimfundiso kulutsha loMzantsi.

Enkosi

To: The ANC

Greetings! Please allow us to submit this statement of condolence. We would highly appreciate your sending this message to the Sisulu family, & disseminating it at public meetings or through relevant publications. We have severe technological constraints (borrowed printer & fax broken down) and we apologise for this message being late. Thank you very much.

The Artspeople of Limpopo humbly Salute Mr Walter Sisulu!

In this time of loss, grief and sadness, on behalf of the artspeople of the Limpopo, the Provincial Arts & Culture Association (PACA) most respectfully sends Mrs Sisulu and Family, and the ANC, our most deeply felt condolences.

We all feel the loss of this giant among men.

Tata Sisulu always was & remains a role model for the very best that South Africa can produce & aspire to. His deep & keen sense of humility, integrity, insight, human rights & humour, & his awesome experience & achievements, not just for politics but also for family, will remain an influence & aspiration for South Africans of all colours, ethnic backgrounds & religions.

We take this opportunity to express our deepest gratitude & homage to his ever-loving & beloved family for endowing him upon us all rather than keeping him to yourselves.

Your gift to the nation is most highly appreciated.

Rest in Peace Tata

We treasure, & will grow & safeguard your legacy to us

The Limpopo Provincial Arts & Culture Association (PACA)

Representing 100's of artspeople across the Limpopo Province.

Dear Mrs. Sisulu and family,

Please accept my condolences on the death of your husband and father Walter Sisulu. We honor his achievements, leadership and legacy now and forever.

Kind regards,
Lauretta Bruno

Lauretta J. Bruno
Partner
Gramercy Partners
535 Park Avenue NY, NY 10021 USA

Tel: (212) 772-1668
Fax: (212) 772-3375 or (212) 888-5829
Email: LJB@gramercypartners.net
Email: LJBruno@aol.com

The Titan is no more!

I write this e-mail with sense of grief and displeasure as the nation morns one of its leader per excellence. In 1996, I first met Cde. Sisulu during the June 16 commemoration rally which took place at Mofolo South, Five Roses Bowl in Soweto. We had an extensive chat with hime together with his wife, M Albertina Sisulu. I could not believe the sense of humility and sharpness that embodied the couple. By then, immediately after he delivered the speech, I went to him to shake his hand and thanked him for the profundity of his the presentation. To me, it appeared quite clearly that he had total grasp of dilectics and their application in our current epoch.

Last year I also joined TATA Sisulu together with his family during the presentation of Elnor Sisulu, his daughter in law gave on his biography. After Elnor's presentation, I was fortunate to join TATA together with his entire family for a photo.

Sisulu has left the indelible mark of excellence and sacrifice. He dedication and commitment to the struggle did not deter him from maintaining cohesion within his family. This poses a challenge to us as young intellectuals and the cadreship of our movement together with our leaders, to continue his legacy by doing exactly what he stood for.

LALA NGOXOLO TATA, we will forever cherish your memory!

Mzwakhe Mbatha
Researcher
National Labour & Economic Development Institute (NALEDI)
Tel: + 27 11 403 21 22
Fax: + 27 11 403 19 48
Cell: + 27 82 597 7273
Email: mzwakhe@naledi.org.za
Website: www.naledi.org.za

Ekugcineni liguqile iqhawe,
uMphikeleli inkunzi eyahlab' iseyithole.
Bathi bethi bayayinqinda
yaqephuza yaqoma ukufa.
Yabhonga, yaphanda,
yaya lapho kungayi lubuyayo.
Yabuya ngesizotha ihlabene
izidlodlo kungubuyikayika.
Ekugcineni uwil' uXhamela.
Thula Sizwe, thula Mama.

No one ever enjoys saying goodbye to the beloved. That is why, despite his age, our society mourns the sad departure of Tata Sisulu to the land of the founding parents of our new nation. Selfless and fearless, him and his compatriots, steeped in basic principles of equality, intrinsic value of humal life and justice for all, and only armed with moral uprightness and the unwavering resolve to bring about a better life for all, took on apartheid - daring death to a duel.

As the youth of South Africa we have always felt safe in their presence and assured in their leadership. A humble servant has now retired. It can only be proper that he be allowed to rest. Let us rejoice in that he lived to see the fruits of his tireless toil. His memory will endure like a diamond for posterity to marvel. May his spirit forever reign and guide us to the better tomorrow he fought so hard for.

When his people called he responded, sacrificed himself and his family and served with a smile until the last days.

May he rest in peace.

To Mama Albertina and family, sinani.

Ndumiso Luthuli

On behalf of the ANC Sam Tambani Branch (43) Greater Johannesburg Region, we join the rest of the progressive movement locally and abroad in mourning the unexpected passing away of this great leader of our revolution.

We are in particular blessed to have known Cde Walter Sisulu through the revolutionary work of our senoir cdes. From here we can only pay tribute to the fallen hero by ensuring that the ANC in our area lives up to the expectations of our people.

We know that Tata Sisulu shall be proud of this, as he himself was and remains A Leader of our revolution produced by the teachings and rich traditions of the congress movement.

Hamba Kahle Tata

We shall soldier on!

Clifford Sedibe
Branch Secretary
ANC Sam Tambani Branch
Ward 43 - M/lands

We SASCO (South African Student Congress) Vaal Pukke branch wou like to send our sincere anddeepest condololences to the family and friends of Comrade Walter Sisulu.We really admire him and appreciate his contribution towards the liberation of our country

From
Thabo Letsie (Media and Publicity)

Lala ngokuthula Xhamela. Eyakho indima uyidlalile. Eyakho impi uyilwile, uyinqobele thina saze sazuza sonke. Masikhala ngabe siyona. Lala ngoxolo Xhamela, lala uphumule.

Muzi Ndlovu

Val Christov,Bulgarian citizen

For me Walter Max Ulyate Sisulu, was a giant of the liberation struggle and one of the founding fathers of South Africa's democracy.

I hope that the ideals of his struggle and dreams for justice will prevail not only in SA but in the world one day.

Tata Sisulu might have passed away, however the values, beliefs of a non-sexist, non-racial and peaceful South Africa shall live with us forever. He definitely deserves a place in the history of the ANC archived at Fort Hare University. Robala ka kgotso, XHAMELA.

Yours in struggle
P. Monyai

I will also like to sent condolences to the Sisulu's family.To them I say you we have also been affected by the untimely demise of one of the galant leaders of our liberation struggle. May his soul rest in peace and his wisdom be with us in the second face of our struggle.

Rest in peace a true cadre of the people's movement.

Kgotso Legwase
branch chairperson- ward 18 (mafikeng)
North West

I wish to express my deepest and sincere condolences to the Sisulu family and friends. Since my earliest memory I have known about the great struggle for freedom and liberation that Mr. Sisulu has been fighting for.

I can only dream of such committment and personal sacrifice that he has shown. Mr. Sisulu has and will always be a great rol-model for young people in and around South Africa.

To the Family and his Wife may you draw strenght from thr knowledge that you Husband,father, uncle, grandfather is a great hero and his life is a sterling example of courage,strength and character. May you find peace in knowing that he has given his life for the people of South Africa and that he was priviledge to see it become the nation he fought so hard for.

May the peace of God comfort you in this time of bereavement

Sincerely yours

Clinton Abrahams
Cape Town
South Africa

Dear Mama Sisulu

Please accept our heartfelt condolences. We are with you in this our of need

Comrade Sisulu has fallen, long live comrade Sisulu

Leon Scott and family

Office Tel (012) 521 3935
Cell 082 649 4091
Office fax (012) 521 5823

As a young person who is member of this great movement,the anc.i have been influenced by the life of the late tata Sisulu and have strived to be a great revolitionary like him and will continue to try and be a disciplined cadre like him.i send my condolences to the Sisulu family,friends and the ANC alliance.

Thulani Kunene

On behalf of all the Sigonyela families, Cona families, Kwatsha families and Madisakwane families accross the country from Pietreburg, Matatiele, Mount Frere, Graaff Reinet, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, I would like to extend our condolences to the family of Tata Omkhule Sisulu.

Today I am a journalist through the effort of Tata Zwelake Sisulu at the time he was with the New Nation.

We say thank you for what you have for us.

The management and staff of the Council for Geoscience join the South African nation in mourning the loss of Mr Walter Sisulu. We extend our sincerest condolences to Mrs Albertina Sisulu and his loved ones.

The Council for Geoscience pays particular tribute to Mr Sisulu for the visionary role he played in shaping the curent South African mining reforms, through his involvement with the Freedom Charter. The Freedom Charter, adopted by the Congress of the People, Kliptown, 26 June 1955, first captured the principle that South Africa's mining rights are part fo the collective patrimony of all South Africans. Today, 48 years later, that principle has become the basis of current South African mining legislation as embodied in the Mining Charter agreed to by all stakeholders.

In mourning Mr Walter Sisulu's passing, we also celebrate his life - a life dedicated to service, a life that both humbles and inspires us. A great leader and brilliant strategist, Mr Walter Sisulu will be remembered for his humility and gentleness. And we honour that memory.

Council for Geoscience, South Africa

To the Sisulu Family!

am taking this opportunity in sharing with you the sad loss of a father, granfather, uncle,a friend to many but above all a "God Given Son of Africa - Who embodied salient features of a true African Leader and a Father to All Whom He Touched Their Lives - We Salute The Great Heroes of Our Democracy - May His Soul Rest n Peace and May the Sisulu Family Have Strength During This Trying Time"

Thabo Motsepe

Hamba Kahle Tata Sisulu - giant of a man and founder of the nation.

Your name will be writ large in the pages of our history for the centuries to come.

Lale Ngoxolo.

Mark Turpin

I received the message of our fallen mentor who led us out of the bondage of apartheid regime to the democratic regime. He died at the right time after he tasted what he wanted to achieved collectively with other fallen comrades.

We the Mbombela Deaf Club salute our liberation Hero, Father, Mentor and send a heartfelt condolences to the family of Sisulu Clan. May his spirit prevail amongst us deaf and the general community until we achieve and complete the mission set forth by him.

Hamba Kahle Baba Sisulu

Meshack Mndawe
Mbombela Deaf Club
Deaf-Mpumalanga
mmndawe@nel.mpu.gov.za

____________________

Clr Lidia Pretorius
Mayoral Committee
Political Head: LED, Tourism & Environmental Management

P O Box 45, Nelspruit, 1200
Tel: 013-759 2251
Fax: 013-759 2253
E-mail: lidiap@mbombela.gov.za

It is indeed with both sadness and celebration for the passing on of Comrade Walter. Our condolences to especially his wife and children and grand children and next of kin. For us as South African's it is also a celebration of the magnanimity of a stalwart of the liberation movement. UTata uSisulu was a giant amongst giants who stood on the shoulders of giants will be fondly remembered by all peace loving South Africans and indeed the entire world.

Hamba Kahle Bawo Sisulu, Qhawe la maqhawe, Isithwalandwe!

Enkosi

Makhwênkwe Mvalo
eKapa
usihlalo we Nehawu: Cape Technikon

I would like to send my deepest condolences to Mrs Sisulu and her family.

Although I knew Walter personally only very slightly, I have a very warm memory of the first time I met him when I had written him a speech (in about 1992) and he said: "That is exactly what I would like to say" and gave me a big hug.

I think everyone's memories will always combine awe of his stature and contribution as one of our greatest leaders, together with those small moments of great warmth and thoughtfulness.

My thoughts and condolences are with you

Sue de Villiers

In respect of the African liberation struggle, I wish to pay tribute to Walter Sisulu for he was one of the great freedom fighters and heroes of his generetion. His life has led to the freedom of a whole nation and was (and still is) a great inspiration to the people of the World. I also wish to extend my deepest condolences to the Sisulu family, and especially to Ma Albertina Sisulu.

Amandla Ngawethu!

Koen Temmerman,
Belgium.

To the Sisulu Family

My heartfelt condolences to u Mama Sisulu, the immediate family and extednded family. May the love of the people and the legacy Tata Sisulu left behind will sooth your pains. I also lift you all before GOD ALMIGHTY, and ask that HIS Peace that surpasses all understanding will comfort you and your family during this time. I pray that HIS angles will encamp around you.

We love you and will keep you in our prayers

Katrina Mseme
Advocacy Manager
Reproductive Rights Alliance
082 852 6548
(011) 403-2101/2

Dear Comrades

South Africa has lost a giant individual that meant so much to the fibre of democracy in this beautiful country called South Africa.Yes we are mourning, but we can find comfort in the fact that comrade Walter Sisulu is in a place where he is happy and where he has found inner peace.

My condolences goes out to his family, his organization and the people of the Republic of South Africa for this terrible lost.
May He rest in peace.

God Bless
Lindsay Louis

Mma Sisulu and Family

We are what we are today because God gave us a father and a leader in Xhamela. Robala ka kgotso ntate w arena, re tla tswetsa pele dikgopolo tsa gago.

From
Lehlagare; Masebolelo; Refilwe,; Pheladi and Katlego MOTHAPO

To Sisulu Family

May God be with you.

Regards
Patrick Shabalala

To the Sisulu family and ANC comrades

Heartfelt condolences on your and the nation's loss.
We salute a comrade, a hero and a great human being.
May his spirit abide in us.

From James, Nicky, Taheera and Susan April

WALTER MAGQAB' AKADLIWA SISULU

We looked after cattle and sheep together; We rode donkeys and tollies together at Sigangeni in Manzana; Engcobo. I recall that you fell off a donkey and injured your bottocks. We played the stick game together. You have weals on your body from my stick. I have weals from your stick, you were heavy duty.

Dr Xuma and you got me to join the ANC in 1948. Remember the 1948 ANC Congress when the ANC Youth League was howling at Dr Xuma? to step down, allegedly because no progress towards liberation was showing. Imagine 1948 to 1988 and the Freedom was not here yet.

Where are the letters I wrote to you when you were overseas in Robben Island? As I told you after your return from the Island, I stopped writing to you because every time I wrote to you I was favoured with special visits from the Branch.

Walk into the Pearly Gates
Lala Ngoxolo Magqabi akadliwa your work continues to live.

Dabulamanzi Gcanga
Manzana Village Engcobo

Library and Information Association of South Africa
LIASA National Office
P.O. Box 1598
Pretoria 0001

Tel: (+27 12) 481 2870/1/2/5/6
NPO 009-577 Fax: (+27 12) 481 2873
e-mail: gwenda@liasa.org.za

16 May 2003

Mrs Albertina Sisulu and Family
e-mail: condolences@anc.org.za

Mama Sisulu

On behalf of the Representative Council and members of LIASA, I wish to express our sincere condolences on the loss of our great leader, Walter Sisulu.

We join the nation in mourning as we recognize the leading role he played in the struggle against apartheid. The example he has set for us all is that of an exemplary human being, who did not regard himself as being above the “smaller”, less significant struggles of ordinary South Africans for a better civil society. He publicly and actively supported initiatives aimed at promoting reading. We fondly remember the beautiful poster of him and you reading to children that was issued to celebrate the very first South African World Book Day.

On behalf of librarians throughout our country, we salute our departed leader and commit ourselves to carrying on the struggle for a truly literate nation so that every South African can fulfill the vision that Walter Sisulu had and encouraged in us all.

Yours faithfully

Robert Moropa
PRESIDENT: LIASA

African Diaspora Council of Canada

May 11, 2003

Mr. Khalema Motlanthe
ANC Secretary General
54 Sauer Street
Johannesburg 2001
South Africa

Re: Tribute to the late Mr. Walter Sisulu

Dear Secretary General:

We wish to express our deepest sadness to your office, and the Government and Peoples of South Africa, at the loss of one of Africa’s greatest sons, Mr. Walter Sisulu.

While we mourn the late Mr. Sisulu, we are comforted that he has planted the seeds of liberation in your country on which the successor generations would thrive. We pray with you that the spirit and ideals of Mr. Sisulu would be expressed in us who are still alive and working to advance the course for which he dedicated his life.

We also take this opportunity to express our sorrow on the tragic loss of lives on May 1, 2003 in the bus accident that took the lives of many South African workers who were to commemorate this year’s May Day. We wish the families of the victims peace in their hearts, and that they will find comfort in knowing that their loved ones did not die in vain.

Our organization, which is building a local chapter of African Diaspora for Africa’s development, takes pride in the leadership role that your office and nation have brought to Africa’s development issues, and it is in this that we hope to contribute to the goals you have set for our peoples and as a lasting legacy to your liberation movements and democratic pluralism.

Yours sincerely,

John Afele, PhD
Chair, Provisional Working Group

cc: His Excellency André Jaquet
South African High Commissioner
15 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, ON
Canada K1M 1M8

2788 Pimlico Crescent, Ottawa, Ontario Canada K1T 2A5
Provisional Working Group contacts:
John Afele, PhD (613) 222-0690 ? Raymond Peterkin (613) 294-1580? Richard Edwin (613) 247-9984
Email john.afele@sympatico.ca; ray@photo-features.com; richardgedwin@hotmail.com; johnafele@hotmail.ca

Mzi wakwa-Xhamela nezalamani

Uhambo luka-Tata lusothusile.

Imisebenzi yakhe iyakuhlala iqaqambile ezingqondweni nasezintliziyweni zethu. Ulufezile ugqatso, sithi makaphumle kwikrone ephezulu, ehleli namanye amagorha ase Afrika, OR Tambo, Robert Sobukwe, Steve Biko, Steve Tshwete, Chris Hani.

Kusapho nabazululwa, ndithi - tutwini, limkile iqhawe lase-Afrika, sijonge kuni ngoku ukuba isibane asikhanyisileyo u-Tata sihlale sikhanya phezulu.

Akuhlanga lungehliyo.
Cingembo

Cingembo Mqaqa
Executive Director
VSCK Investment Holding (Pty) Ltd
Tel 011 - 397 4653
Fax 011 - 397 4655
Cell 082 - 7997996
e-mail cingembo@vsck.co.za

Dear Comrades,
As a long time activist in the anti-apartheid movement, I mourn with you the death of Walter Sisulu. I can only hope that the South Africa you are building will be true to his convictions. This is the best tribute you can offer him.
In solidarity.

Brigitte Berthouzoz
Directrice
CFXB, 29 av. de la Gare, CH-1950 Sion
+41 27 327 70 70
www.fxb.org

I would like to send my deepest condolences to the ANC and the Sisulu family for the loss of Ntate Walter Sisulu. I would also like to thank Ntate Sisulu for risking his life in order for people like me to have a dignified life in this country. As a young person in this country I realize that there is a world of opportunity out there which would have only remained a dream if it was not for the selfless actions of Ntate Sisulu.

Robala ka kgotso Ntate Sisulu lefatshe le keke la o lebala.

Thapelo Motsoeneng
Bloemfontein

Dear Family of tata Sisulu

May God strengthen your spirit in this difficult times.
Be aware a great father to the nations are no longer with us, to give tribute to him is to walk his footpath and give goodness to the nation.

HAMBA KHALE
Clanwilliam constituency

This is send not on the capacity of the underlying organisations, but we share the same emotions on the matter.

This letter seeks to send my condolences to the family and the entire progressive movement. It is yes, a sad day in our lives when a giant of the revolution passes on to join the likes of OR, Slovo, Mabhida, Kotane, Hani, Mbeki, Gwala, Che, Marx, Lenin, Modise, Mokaba, Tshwete and many many more unsung heroes and heroines of our struggle who before him.

We in the North West Capital of Mafikeng salute and dips our red revolutionary banners in remembering and honouring a life well spent, a life full of meaning and cause. As we mourn the Kimberly 51, we want to as well continue to fight for the struggles that TATA Sisulu could have but time caught up with him. Those struggles amongst others are for economic emancipation and socialism in our lifetime and the ultimate realisation and achievement of communism in the 21st Century.

In conclusion we hope that our leaders in the ANC will not abstain from the task of building a strong Alliance as our veterans so hard organised.

Matla ko Bathong!

DENNIS SHERVARDNARDZE PEETE:
MAFIKENG COSATU LOCAL SECRETARY
MAFIKENG SACP CONVENOR
NEHAWU REGIONAL DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON
ANC MAKWETENG (WARD 16) BRANCH DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON

ultimo saluto a Walter Sisulu

Cari compagni, sono profondamente addolorato per la morte di Walter Sisulu. Ho letto la notizia su "il manifesto" di Roma. Avevo 13 anni quando ho letto per la prima volta il suo nome, accanto a quello di Nelson Mandela nella drammatica e luminosa storia della lotta contro l'apartheid. Ho potuto conoscere solo da lontano la Vostra storia e adesso che ho 30 anni, posso dire che l'insegnamento di uomini come Walter, Steve Biko e Joe Slovo e dei tanti generosi compagni scomparsi, hanno aiutato me e tanti giovani bianchi, europei, militanti (spesso critici e inquieti) delle sinistre, a capire cosa significa lottare per la libertà e per la giustizia di tutti, senza distinzioni di sesso, razza e condizione economica, personale e sociale.

Vi invio un abbraccio

Che la memoria di Walter e Joe, e l'esempio del compagno Nelson Mandela possano ispirare ancora la Vostra azione contro le ingiustizie e il razzismo.

Per la libertà di tutti, per l'eguaglianza, per la fraternità tra gli esseri umani. Carmine Fabio Attanasi

Ps Excuse me but I don't speak English.

A hero has been lost. A warm and humble family man. From my family to the Sisulu family.

My deepest condolences and my heartfelt gratitude for all the sacrifices he has made so that my family can live a better life.

HAMBA KHALE
FRANK ADAMS AND FAMILY

Dear Mama Sisulu,

I am just an ordinary Person, who has lived during the struggle and shortly after in South Africa.

I have meet Mr. Sisulu in a way close and in a way slightly at a distance, but his presence in South Africa was feelt at all times. Unfortunately I was not privileged to meet him for a long time to have a chance to talk to him in depth, but I was privileged to hear him speak at one function I had attendet.

I admired Mr. Sisulu for his courage, his patience, his fairness and his work as a whole.

A lot of people will miss him terribly.

I am thankful to him and to you as his wife for all you have done. As you do know - behind every big man is a even bigger woman.

Mr. Sisulu has not only been to this earth - he left his footprint on it -he will never bee forgotten.

Dear Mrs. Sisulu - I wish that one of your children could continue with the work of Mr. Sisulu and that they will be able to benefit from your experiences and have your further support.

There is still a lot of work to be done in South Africa. Mr. Sisulu and yourself have startet the process, but the process needs to continue (maybe with our Generation) in order to have at long last the country we would like to have - "All Nations to be able to live in peace and harmony".

Once more I would like to thank you and wish you and the Sisulu Family all the best.

Due to My family having to leave South Africa because of death treath - I can only attend the funeral on the television and be there with my heart. I apologiese for this.

with best regards
Karin and Theo Schoenfeldt
Johannesburg South Africa (owner of Maxi Taxi Cabs)
temporary living in Germany

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

To: African National Congress

The National Development Agency wishes to join the rest of the people of South Africa, the Continent and in deed the world in mourning the death of the icon and a statesman of the liberation struggle, Walter Sisulu.

Tata Walter Sisulu, a revolutionary giant, remained a peoples representative to the end and their hope here at home, in Africa and the world over, that a just struggle against injustice, oppression and deprivation will and can be defeated.

In his life, he became the embodiment that came to epitomize the values of our constitution that guarantee freedom for all and restore pride and dignity for the poor. This is a legacy that the government has guaranteed by creating institutions that will support what Tata Sisulu stood for.

The National Development Agency is but one such institution that Tata Sisulu would have wanted to see fulfilling his historic responsibility and the mandate when he join the movement of the people and a struggle for better life for all.

As a selfless leader, a revolutionary, a strategist, an organizer and a symbol of unity of purpose for democratic forces throughout the world, he stood above the rest to ensure that our people come first and that it is only through a disciplined movement that the course will triumph over evil system of Apartheid.

He transcended all epochs and milestones of the liberation struggle up to a point of leading the country to constitutional negotiations, peaceful transition and a period leading towards democratic elections in 1994.

South Africa is today poor without a Walter Sisulu, the ANC is robbed of a distinguish revolutionary, a leader, a legend and an archive that characterizes continuity and change in the history of the movement.

The world has a void and a sense of emptiness with his passing on, for his space is too big to fill but also never easy a task to occupy. This on its own poses a challenge to the ANC and humanity to bring up, nourish, guide and provide another Walter Sisulu.

The country's transition and transformation have has suffered, for it still requires a leader of Xhamela's calibre and character full of unpretentious humility, revolutionary discipline care and the love for the people.

The NDA deeps its flag and salute the passing on of this towering giant, an architect of Democracy. Tata Sisulu, you shall remain in our hearts and a monument that propel us forward to even greater heights in addressing the needs of those he stood and died for.

Your passing on marks another chapter in the unfolding history of the struggle to achieve a better life for all our people and even more determined to push back the frontiers of poverty and under-development.

Your soul will remain a source of influence and a reminder of a warrior whose life has been dedicated and well deployed in the course to serve and strive for the ordinary people in their quest for freedom and justice.

As we mourn Tata Sisulu's death, the NDA offers its hearty, deepest and profound condolences to Mam' Albertina Sisulu and her family at this moment of grief and sorrow. Your loss is a nation's loss tooo and we are humbled by the sacrifices you made as a family to give us a father, a teacher, a hero of the struggle and a servant of the people.

Rest in Peace Tata Sisulu! Xhamela!

Uli Qhawe lama Qhawe!

Issued by the Chief Executive Officer of the National Development Agency, Board, the Management and staff.

God does not expect us to be strong,just obedient.

We have to step forward trusting that the Lord who gave the ordres will also provide the strength to carry on.

From Mafikeng Local Municipality
Executive Mayor
Councillors
Staff

I and those who grew up during the times of apartheid and were taught the teachings of Tata Sisulu and tata Mandela really feels a deep sorrow about the passing way of this hero.

It our duty as leaders of today and tommorrow in our different fields of study and work to continue the work that was started by our leaders like Sisulu. It is with pride and honour to me to end this email, having had an opportunity of haveing been brought up during the times of the stuggle and be able differentiate between our true leaders and those who were working with the former apartheid government. For most of the youth growing up in Kwazul-Natal was not easy to join a progressive political party because of the situations and that time but because of the teachings of our brilliant leaders like Sisulu, Mandela Thambo, Mbeki and others we were able form our structures thus we have freedom today.

Lala ngoxolo mkhululi we-South Africa

Amsandla awethu. "Aluta Continua"

May God,

welcome one of the country's soldiers, may he place him in his just place along our other fathers.

Leslie McDoolley

Dear Walter Sisulu

I am a White School boy in grade nine and have just heard that you are dead

I would just like to thank you for showing so much grace to the people who forced you to cary around passes and to live in places that you did not whant to live, you are a true hero and you have changed the country for the beter

God bless
Jazz

In all the world there are few people whose eloquence spoke so loudly. His personal courage and commitment created a beacon amidst the darkness. His passing means that we all have lost more than we can express and for me it dashes one of my great hopes, that would have been to spend some time talking to this hero of mine. His voice, however, will echo in my mind just as it will reverberate in all those who love freedom and justice.

Jules M Rothstein, PhD, PT, FAPTA
Professor, Physical Therapy
University of Illinois at Chicago
Editor, Physical Therapy
Home (business) Phone: 708-848-6397
Home (personal) Phone 708-848-6290
Home Fax: 708-848-0017
email: jules-rothstein@attbi.com
Share your life...Share your decision
Organ Donation saves lives.

Ek bring hulde aan een van SA se heel grootstes! Mnr Sisulu, dankie dat jy vir ons almal die stryd gevoer het en dankie aan jou familie wat soveel moes opgeoffer het, sodat jy vir ons kon stry.

Inige simpatie aan die familie en ons sal altyd aan Mnr Sisulu dink met groot liefde en respek.

Vaarwel ou Groot Vader.

My sincere and heartfelt condolences goes to Mrs.Sisulu & Family in their time of bereavement.My God grant you strength ,comfort and peace during this difficult times.

We take comfort in the fact that the late Dr.Walter Sisulu was a true champion of faith,hope and love.

Souh-Africa and the world will miss his passion for justice,freedom and ''A Better Live for All'',but his legacy will continue .

May God the Farther ,Son, and Holy Ghost Bless,keep and protect you.

Sincerely Yours

Rev.Rodrick Hoffman&Family
(Including All The Members Of The St.Mark Ame Zion Church ,Athens ,Tennessee,Usa.)

We thank God for this son of Africa who sets an example to all of us. This country owes much to this man of peace.

Mike and Jane Walker.

A great man with an inspiring vision

God Bless

S Sibal
London. UK.

My condolences to a great human being.

...your spirit lives on

Nicos Herodotou

Comrades,

We join you,with millions of other people the world over,in mourning the late Comrade Walter Sisulu.His demise has robbed us one of the heroes of our struggle for freedom,liberty,dignity,equality and justice.Our consolation is that the ideals he strongly stood for were realized in his lifetime at least with the destruction of the apartheid state.As much remains to be done in Africa,we pray that his life will remain as an inspiration to us and the future generations.A luta continua.

Ahmed Kiwanuka
Dar es Salaam.

With deepest, heartfelt condolences, the Mahole family of the North west, wishes to say we feel with you and the people of South Africa. We have very recently also lost a father and head of the family. We know your pain.

May God dive you the strength to continue on your illustrious path.

Jimmy Mahole & Family
Itsoseng
Cell : (072) 436-0025

My .sincere condolences to the family of Walter Sisulu and all the people of South Africa. I have been to South Africa and seen the firsthand the country. Coming from America. I salute Mr. Sisulu for his brave struggle and fight to liberate the people in South Africa. God Bless him and his life time of service to his people and for never selling his soul.

Sincerely,

Robert McCoy
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA

I am typing this letter with a heavy heart as I feel as though a large part of myself and the country has died with the passing of not only one of the countries greatest heroes, but also one of the world's greatest heroes.

There's not much you can say about Walter Sisulu that hasn't already been said so I'll just say that to my mind Walter Sisulu embodied the struggle. He was an intelligent, strong, caring, kind, hardworking and modest man who even against the most dispicable of enemies never forgot about his morals or values, not to forget that he was a wonderful family man as well.There so many more superlatives I could use to describe our fallen hero , but none of them would fully do him justice so I'll just say that any man that would give up his whole life for the struggle for freedom of his people is the ultimate hero in my eyes.

I really wish I could have met this great hero.

My deepest condolences to his entire family especially the wonderful Albertina Sisulu.

Yours Sincerly

Joshua Greybe

Hamba kahle baba we Africa!!.

Rest in peace, you left a mark in our lives!. God bless you.

Boyie Dlamini

Nelson Mandela Nationla Museum, Umtata Condolences Walter Sisulu

In this moment of loss may the Sisulu family that has given so generously of itself and of its Father Isitwalandwe Walter Sisulu to the service of this nation derive some consolation in the knowledge that even in faraway Umtata we are thinking of them.

We thank them for the glorious memory of this stalwart who has been an activist leader and catalyst for so much change for so many people. Tata Walter Sisulu’s life was a life worth living. His was an inspirational life. It is no exaggeration to ask, what would we be as a people without him?

Our museum is a direct beneficiary of the glorious story of his life for we are in the business of stories and learning. We and our learners are all the richer because of the story of his life.

Your departure is an eternal loss to us. Time with you in the same country will and would never be enough for all of us.

Xhamela you deserve this well earned rest.
Sithi Hamba Kahle Xhamela Umzamo omhle uwufezile.
Your vision of “Freedom in our Lifetime” has been realized.
Your life and your life story are an education.

Chief Executive Officer
Nelson Mandela Museum
Umtata

RHINOS BLOG, Fri 5/9/03 - "Walter Sisulu Passes"

3 QUOTES TODAY
"When an elder dies, it is as if a library has burned."
- - African Proverb

"Our country and our people have lost one of the architects of our democratic order ... an architect of non-racist, non-sexist democracy who has been at the centre of it for many decades. Not many people realize his contribution. Walter Sisulu was a giant among our people."

- - South African President Thabo Mbeki, 5/5/03

"Xhamela is no more. May he live forever! His absence has carved a void. A part of me is gone... Together we shared ideas, forged common commitments. We walked side by side through the valley of death, nursing each other's bruises, holding each other up when our steps faltered. Together we savoured the taste of freedom."
- - Nelson Mandela, 5/5/03

APRIL X IN HISTORY:

1914 - - U.S. President Wodrow Wilson proclaims Mother's Day. The liberal Wilson, elected on an anti-war platform, will send many of the mothers' children to die in the European trenches, as well as oversee the invasion of Russia to suppress the revolution there, & a 'Red Scare' at home.

RHINO HERE:
This past Monday, Walter Sisulu, African National Congress leader & primary architect of South African democracy passed away. Along with Nelson Mandela, Ahmad Kathrada, and the other Rivonia Trialists, he was imprisoned for over 2 decades, eventually being released to become a leader in the new South African government; surely one of the great non-violent political triumphs in world history. Their struggle must be a source of strength for all who strive for non-violent change.

To his honor, I have assembled, with the assistance of South African Rhino's Blog reader, Kimberley Worthington, selected articles and writings by & about Mr. Sisulu. Kimberly said of him, "He was the greatest person that I have ever met, the most evolved soul."

The following sites all have obituaries and tributes for Walter Sisulu:

AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS WEBSITE:
http://www.anc.org.za
SOUTH AFRICAN HISTORY WEBSITE:
http://www.sahistory.org.za
SOUTH AFRICAN GOVERNMENT SITE:
http://www.gov.za

NY Times Obituary of Walter Sisulu is posted at:
http://www.nytimes.com/2003/05/06/obituaries/06SISU.html

This is a brief summary of Walter Sisulu's life.
Struggle hero Walter Sisulu has gone

Front Page of The Johannesburg Star, May 6, 2003

Arguably more than any other family in South Africa, the Sisulus' contribution to the liberation struggle and the birth of the new nation is outstanding. And the credit for this selfless input is Walter Sisulu, the man who recruited Nelson Mandela to the ANC. For his undying love of freedom, Sisulu spent more than a quarter of a century on Robben Island. He gave his children, and perhaps more importantly his wife Albertina, to the struggle.

At the height of apartheid repression, Albertina played a pivotal role in the founding of the United Democratic Front. While other children were in exile, Zwelakhe Sisulu was engaged in countering apartheid propaganda through the now defunct New Nation, a publication that was restricted several times. Zwelakhe himself was detained for almost two years without trial.

Sisulu inspired thousands of young people to challenge the might of the apartheid machinery...

THE REST IS POSTED AT:
http://www.thestar.co.za/index.php?fSectionId=128&fArticleId=141329

Nelson Mandela's reactions to his friend's passing.
Mandela laments Sisulu's passing
News 24, 6/5/03

Johannesburg - Former president Nelson Mandela and New National Party leader Marthinus van Schalkwyk were among the first on Monday night to eulogise African National Congress stalwart Walter Sisulu. Sisulu died earlier on Monday evening. "Xhamela is no more. May he live forever! His absence has carved a void. A part of me is gone," Mandela lamented.

"Our paths first intersected in 1941. During the past 62 years our lives have been intertwined. We shared the joy of living, and the pain," Mandela said in a statement sent to Sapa late on Monday night. "Together we shared ideas, forged common commitments. We walked side by side through the valley of death, nursing each other's bruises, holding each other up when our steps faltered. Together we savoured the taste of freedom."......

Libhaliwe na iGama lakho / kuloMqulu weNkululeko / Vuma silibhale kuloMqulu / weNkululeko.
(Has your name been enrolled in the struggle for freedom. Permit us to register you in the struggle for freedom.)
"I shall miss his friendship and counsel. Till we meet again, Hamba kahle, Xhamela. Qhawe la ma Qhawe!"...

READ IT ALL AT:
http://www.news24.com/News24/South_Africa/News/0,,2-7-1442_1355776,00.html

RHINO'S BOTTOM LINE
Wonderful heart wrenching & heart warming letters between Mr. Sisulu & his wife.

Walter and Albertina
How the man and his marriage will forever be remembered

The Star, May 7, 2003

On Walter Sisulu's 70th birthday in May 1982, Ruth First paid tribute to the couple.

'He has committed all his life to the struggle for liberation - in the legal days, in the days of the underground and now in prison on Robben Island and in Pollsmoor. And in his person, he is committed to the practice of liberation because he is committed to the liberation of his people, of our people, but he is a liberated man in himself. He uses no devices to overwhelm others. He has pride, but no false pride. He has no arrogance, he has no malice. He is a plain and a straightforward man, he is a soft-spoken man, but he is a committed man, a man who makes no concessions when questions of principles are at stake. He is a decisive man but he is not an authoritarian leader. Politics is his life and he believes in people.....

A love story that stood the test of time, separation and pain

Correspondence during Robben Island years

Walter wrote his first letter to Albertina a few days after his arrival on the Island. That took care of his quota for the first half of the year. He became rather distressed when he had not yet received a reply from Albertina after a month. He knew that she was not a great letter writer, but had assumed that in the circumstances, she would respond promptly. He was especially anxious for news about his children, Max in particular....

THE SISULU'S CORRESPONDENCE AND MORE IS POSTED AT:
http://www.thestar.co.za/index.php?fSectionId=327&fArticleId=141715

"RHINOS BLOG" is the responsibility of Gary Rhine. (rhino@kifaru.com) Feedback, and requests to be added or deleted from the list are encouraged.

SEARCH BLOG ARCHIVES & SURF RHINOS LINKS AT: http://www.rhinosblog.info

RHINOS OTHER WEB SITES:
http://www.dreamcatchers.org (INDIGENOUS ASSISTANCE & INTERCULTURAL DIALOG)
http://www.kifaru.com (NATIVE AMERICAN RELATIONS VIDEO DOCUMENTARIES)

Articles are reprinted under Fair Use Doctrine of international copyright law. http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/17/107.html
All copyrights belong to original publisher.

This is a very very sad new.

As a foreign journalist, there are many strong events I kept deeply in memory about my 4 years in South Africa between 89 and 93. Among the strongest ones, there is that day of mid October 1989. Walter Sisulu was going to come home after long 25 years of political imprisonment . Along with a group of foreign and local journalists we arrived in the middle of the night outside the Sisulu home in Soweto and we wait. I remember very clearly, as the sun was just waking up, Walter Sisulu was there, getting slowly outside the police combi, some jail officer around, one carrying his few luggage. Walter Sisulu looked at the agitation in front of his gate, smiled gently to the press and told us in a very soft voice: "Please, let me see my wife first." So he did and then later came back to us, hand in hand with his wife under a ANC flag fixed a the wall of his house. There, among comrades and neighbours dancing and singing, Walter Sisulu answered our stupid questions with patience and humour. Later in the church nearby you (his comrades of struggle and jail) all arrived and addressed the people and the nation for the first time after so long . "The first ANC political meeting" said Walter Sisulu and he promised : "ANC will end apartheid !"

Nelson Mandela was still in jail. Today It is reconforting to know that Walter Sisulu could see the change and die in a free South Africa. After all the suffering, the privation, the very first day of his release, Walter Sisulu gave the world and his nation a great lesson of humility and strength with a wonderful smile of tolerance. Something you also did, dearest Katy, and yet your other comrades did and later Nelson Mandela….I shall always remember that and receive the message not only as a journalist but also as a citizen of the world. Walter Sisulu may have died, his heritage shall never died.

I am close in thoughts.
Paskal - aegd@wanadoo.fr
(forgive my english)

Dear Family & Friends,

With Tata's passing, we thought we'd share Madiba's Forward in Elinor's wonderful book recently published in South Africa.

... with our best wishes,

Dearest brothers and sisters,

We can only hope that Tata passed peacefully and without pain. Although we know that Mama is surrounded by loving members of the family, it is almost unimaginable to fathom the depth of her grief at losing her beloved partner and soul mate. Blessedly, they got to spend wonderful and joyous time together in these final years.

Please keep us posted about your plans for Tata's funeral and memorial services. If we can assist in any way -practical or emotional - please do not hesitate to call on us to lend our complete support. We send each of you, and each of the other members of the family through you, all of our love and heartfelt condolences.

With deep hearts and beautiful memories,
Jerry & Nadine

________________________________________________
As we have remained in touch with the children and grandchildren of the Sisulu family through phone and email, we have been thinking very much about you and how profoundly Tata's death affects your life. With all our prayers, - Nadine & Jerry

From: Nadine Hack Sent: Wednesday,
May 07, 2003 6:18 PM

Dear Shaka - You are confirming what I expected, that Mama would be truly devastated by this unbearable loss. Please keep showering her with love, hugs and kisses - and let her know that they come not only from you, but from Jerry and me and from the thousands of people throughout South Africa and throughout the world who love her from the very depths of their hearts. Also, trust in her amazing strength and know that, although this grief will never leave her, she will regain that twinkle - as that is the very essence of who she is as a truly uniquely magnificent human being. Mourning takes time and she should be allowed to express all her sorrow and not feel that she is the one who has to support others; this is the time for everyone else to support her. We will continue to remain in close touch with you and your family during this painful time. Jerry joins me in sending all our love, - Nadine

From: Shaka Sisulu Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2003 5:18 PM

Hi Nadine & Jerry, Many thanks for your kind words & thoughts in this most trying time, they give strength when the soul is weak and light when gloom blankets the sky. Tata however has led a full life and we would do him a great disservice in not celebrating his life at this junction. The funeral will be on Sat 17, a day before his birthday, I will provide further details as they become available to me. Indeed my grandma didn't take it well, this must have been compounded by his passing in her arms. However, she has regained some of her strength and composure, although not the twinkle in her eye. One wonders if it will ever grace us again. This may be the saddest occurrence to come of this week. I hope you are both well. I will keep you posted on further developments. Peace be with u. Regards, Shaka

From: Elinor Sisulu Sent: Tuesday, May 06, 2003 2:12AM

Thank you Nadine and Jerry. We know that you are with us in spirit. You are right, Tata died peacefully and in Mama's arms. We will keep you posted. Much love. Elinor

From: Nadine Hack [mailto:nhack@because.net] Sent: Monday, May 05, 2003 7:12 PM

Dearest brothers and sisters, We can only hope that Tata passed peacefully and without pain. Although we know that Mama is surrounded by loving members of the family, it is almost unimaginable to fathom the depth of her grief at losing her beloved partner and soul mate. Blessedly, they got to spend wonderful and joyous time together in these final years.

Please keep us posted about your plans for Tata's funeral and memorial services. If we can assist in any way - practical or emotional - please do not hesitate to call on us to lend our complete support. We send each of you, and each of the other members of the family through you, all of our love and heartfelt condolences.
With deep hearts and beautiful memories, - Nadine and Jerry
____________________
Nadine Hack and Jerry Dunfey in New York:
870 United Nations Plaza, New York, NY 10017 USA
T: (+1) 212-753-7610 F: (+1) 212-755-9832 E: nhack@because.net

Dear Mr Kathrada, I was very saddened this morning when reading in the newspaper of Mr Sisulu's death. You had told me a year ago how weak he was, yet I cannot but be shocked at this news. It has reached here that his humility and strength in leading the fight for democracy in South Africa has set a model for a leader eager of justice not of power. I imagine what a loss it means to you, and I would like to assure you of my deepest sympathy in this sad time.

I will come back to you very soon regarding our project of documentary. Things have not progressed too much in France, however the Swedish television and Swedish Film Institute let us know that they regard it as a wonderful and useful project. Scandinavia is once again at the forefront of positioning itself in support of recording the memory of the anti apartheid struggle.

Very sincerely yours,

Anne Georget - anne.georget@noos.fr

I am writing to you amidst my tears at this saddest news that Tata Sisulu, the gentlest of heroes, has passed from this world.

I mourn this profound loss and I grieve for you and all his family and dearest comrades who knew and loved him so deeply and who he loved most. I pray for your comfort and solace.
His tremendous spirit will carry on.

All of my love,
Sharon

It is so great to receive this. Thanks so very much. Our hearts and prayers are with all of you, the Sisulu family and South Africa. This is such a profound loss.

With love and gratitude,

Sharon Gelman - ANSAfrica@aol.com
Executive Director, Artists for a New South Africa
2999 Overland Avenue, Suite 102, Los Angeles CA 90064 USA
Phone 310.204.1748 ;
Fax 310.204.4277 ,
www.ansafrica.org

Thank you very much Kathy for sending me the sad news. He was one of the great men of Africa and one of my oldest friends, who I was proud to know. We will all miss him terribly. There are two fine obits in the Guardian and I'm sure elsewhere.

All best wishes
Anthony Sampson

Dear Mr. Kathrada
We just heard about the news regarding Mr. Sisulu. On behalf of myself, and the entire City Year organization, we offer our condolences to you, and to all of his comrades. Mr. Sisulu has served as an inspiration for all of us, and we know that his memory will live on and guide our actions toward a more just world.

Sincerely,
Azad
Azad Oommen - aoommen@cityyear.org
International Programs Manager City Year, Inc. 617.927.2616

Dear Mr Kathrada,

I am in receipt of your mail intimating the passing away of Comrade Walter Sisulu.

I am very sorry to learn of sad news of the passing away of Comrade Walter Sisulu. Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your dear senior colleague.

As one comes to term with the fact that this becon of light is no more with us, I can only recount the positive fact that during one's stint in South Africa, one had the opportunity of meeting and interacting with one of the guiding spirits of our times. Though he is no more, he lives on in all our hearts.

I would be grateful if you could also convey my condolences to Max and Eleanor.

Warm regards

Manjeev Puri - indinfo@omantel.net.om c/o Embassy of India, Muscat (Oman)

Dearest Uncle Kathy

I am so sorry to hear about the overwhelmingly sad loss of your comrade, brother and friend. It is indeed a painful loss for all of us. Comrade Walter Sisulu, too, has now become ancestor of the nation. What can I say but to extend to you my heartfelt condolences and to with you stenghth over this difficult period. I will be thinking of you. My friends Madeleine and Johannes van Niekerk, with whom I'm living in Switzerland at the moment, also wish to extend their heartfelt condolences and will also keep you in their prayers over this difficult period.
All my Love
Deela - haimisch@hotmail.com

Dear Kathy:

I am writing to extend my sympathies to you and your comrades on the loss of Walter Sisulu. This is a sad day for South Africa and you.
Fondly,
Dorothy

Dorothy C. Woodson - Dorothy.Woodson@yale.edu
Curator, African Collection Yale University, 317 Sterling Memorial Library PO Box 208240, New Haven, CT. 06520-8240 Tel: (203) 432-1882 - Fax: (203) 432-7231

Dear Kathy,

Please convey to Albertina, Max and the rest of the family my condolences on the passing away of Walter.

A great African, he has been an inspiration to many of us outside South Africa.

E. S. Reddy - EReddy@aol.com EReddy@aol.com
Former director of the United Nations Centre against Apartheid

Thank you Cde Kathy

With loving thoughts and prayers for you and all our leaders as well as the nation but especially for all of you in the leadership who lost a dear friend and comrade.

Michael Lapsley,ssm

Institute for Healing of Memories, Director Fr. Michael Lapsley, SSM, 2 Lente Road, Sybrand Park, Cape Town 7708, South Africa, ph: +27-21-696-4230 fx: +27-21-697-4773; mobile +27-82-416-2766; email: healing@mindspring.co.za (work); michael.lapsley@attglobal.net; www: healingofmemories.co.za

Dear Mr. Kathrada,

I awoke this morning to news about the death of your good friend and comrade Walter Sisulu. All of us here are deeply saddened by the passing of this great man. Michigan State University Press's staff extend our deepest, heartfelt sympathy to you, to Mr. Sisulu's family, and to his many friends and associates in South Africa and around the world.

We remember what he did; we celebrate his life in our hearts; we honor the principles and ideals for which he stood; and we reflect upon the dream of a better South Africa for which he struggled for so long to make real.

With deep sympathy,
Fred

Fredric C. Bohm, Ph.D. Director Michigan State University Press; E-mail: bohm@msu.edu World Wide Web: www.msupress.msu.edu; Phone: 517-355-9543 extension 117 Fax: 517-432-2611

Dear Kathy -- so sorry to hear of Mr. Sisulu's death -- no doubt you were very close and he will be missed -- he certainly made his mark on South Africa and in so doing, his mark on the world -- our best wishes to you, Barbara, and the Sisulu family -- Larry and Judy - Gettoitlk@aol.com

Dear Bhai Kathybhai

Comrade Walter Sisulu, or Tata Sisulu as I would like to think of him, has joined the elements. But how he will enrich them !
He was a renaissance man, apart from being a freedom fighter. He was a conscience among minds, a system of values among a body of strategies. He was to Madiba what no one - other than the Mahatma himself - was to Nehru : a touchstone and a whetstone rolled into one. He alchemised and he honed. When comes such another ? Please convey to the family, particularly to Elinor, the solidarity and condolence of one who will never forget the affection of this giant of a man.

Yours ever, Gopal - gopalg@online.no

Dear Kathy:

We can only imagine how much Walter Sisulu meant to you and how much of a loss his passing must be to so many people. Just wanted to let you know that Anne and I are thinking of you. The past Thursday was my last class for both the semester and my career at UMSL. Retirement sounds great especially since we have so many plans. Looking forward to seeing you in September. regards,
Chuck
Charles P. Korr - cpkorr@umsl.edu, Professor of History, University of Missouri - St. Louis, Phone: (314) 516 - 5690 Fax: (314) 516 5781

Dear Ahmed bhai,

Devaki and I are saddened to learn that Walter has left us. Our love to Albertina, Max and other members of the family ( we do not have their direct number).

On getting your mail, I phoned our son Sreenivasan Jain who is in Bombay there days as resident editor of the 24 hour news TV channel (NDTV 24X7). The news is already on the 'Headlines', and with a good coverage.

Meanwhile, I have sent a message to Inder Gujral. Alao MS Prabhakara who was Hindu correspondent at Cape of five years. He is based in Assam now.

I am about to send a message to Narayanan who was President of India when Walter received the Padma Vibhushan; as also to Sonia Gandhi Congress President.

affectionately,

LCJainl - cjain@bgl.vsnl.net.in

Kathy,
I am sending as an attachment the letter I wrote for the family. You will recognize in it some of what I wrote for his birthday message, but I thought it was appropriate. I wanted to use the Xhosa phrase as a refrain, so I checked the spelling with Mzamo Mangaliso, whom you may remember having met when you were first here in October 1999.

Thank you for suggesting that I buy the Sisulu biography when I was in Cape Town. It provides some comfort now.

Kathy, I wish I had words for you now. I feel so helpless to console in ways I think are important. Please know that I care deeply about what all this must feel like for you. I care about you, Kathy; therefore, whatever you experience is important to me. I hope Barbara is there in the country. I think you need each other a lot now. I am hugging you both...as well as Laloo. Please tell him for me.

My love,
Marcie - mwilliams@chancellor.umass.edu

May 6, 2003

Dr. Marcellette G. Williams
Past Chancellor
Senior Vice President for International Relations
University of Massachusetts
Amherst, MA 01003

E-mail: mwilliams@chancellor.umass.edu Fax: +413 259-1873

May 6, 2003

To the family of the Honourable Walter Sisulu:

Walter Sisulu! Akekho ofana naye!

We are deeply saddened by the death of your husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, son of South Africa, citizen of humanity--Walter Sisulu, a man whose life we shall ever strive to emulate as the supreme lesson in the triumph of the human spirit.

In 1976 from Robben Island he posed the question that seemed to guide his life: "Wherein lies the unity of the world?" This is how he answered the question:

"The unity of the world is not to be found in any community of interests between imperialists, nor can it reside in any hopes of harmony between oppressed and oppressors. The unity of the world is embedded in the forces striving against exploitation and oppression, against imperialism. The struggles of the oppressed and exploited, issuing in national and social revolutions, are giving birth to a new world, the world of peace and friendship between the peoples of the world, of freedom and national independence. And every blow struck against oppression and exploitation hammers out the new era. These are the forces whose community of interests rests neither on rivalry nor oppression nor exploitation, but on the realization of humankind's humanity."

Walter Sisulu! Akekho ofana naye!

Albertina Sisulu, your words in a birthday greeting to your imprisoned husband emphasized his singularity. You wrote: "A man like you has not yet been born. Perhaps with the coming generation there will be a lucky woman who will give birth to a child of your qualities."

Walter Sisulu! Akekho ofana naye!

Had his own mother known on May 18, 1912, as she laboured in Engcobo in the Trasnkei, that she was giving birth to someone whose life of service, lived values and wisdom would constitute such an exemplar for so many, she might never have even experienced the pain of that childbirth, for she would have been overwhelmed by a more enormous sensation of pride, respect, admiration, and gratitude for the new life whose entrance into the world she was privileged to assist.

Walter Sisulu! Akekho ofana naye!

Walter Sisulu's life demonstrated his understanding of service to and for the people as the singular human experience that bestows to our persons the full currency of the human phenomenon.

Walter Sisulu! Akekho ofana naye!

Would that we could be there with all of you now. There is some consolation knowing that we are part of that collective mourning process because we are human. And in our shared grief we will muster the courage and resolve to enable the triumph of our fundamental humanity as a fitting tribute to Walter Sisulu's life. Albertina Sisulu, you have said it for us, as Elinor Sisulu has quoted: "We are each required to walk our own road…and then stop, assess what we have learned and share it with others. It is only in this way that the next generation can learn from those who have walked before them, so that they can take the journey forward after we can no longer continue. We can do no more than tell our story-it is then up to them to make of it what they will." To you and to him, we are grateful.

Sincerely,

Dr. Marcellette G. Williams,

Dear Uncle Kathy

I was very sad to hear about the passing away of your dear friend Walter Sisulu.

I am thinking of you and his family during these difficult times.

With love,
Nadira - nadira@trustemail.com

Dear Ahmed Kathrada

It is so sad to know that one of the world's most heroic pioneers in the battle against racialism and apartheid has left us. His work and achievements shall never be forgotten in South Africa as well as in my part of the world - Denmark.
I write on behalf of my family, my collegues and of the people behind a proposed Nelson Mandela Centre (now Truth and Reconciliation Centre). Please accept our condolences.

Yours sincerely
Maria Rytter - mr@svendborgmuseum.dk, MA & Curator, Svendborg og Omegns Museum
Grubbemollevej 13, DK5700 Svendborg, Denmark

Dear Kathy,

I just heard about Walter's passing from Sheila, who is devastated. I am so sorry. It is a very sad day. My thoughts will be with Mama and the family and all of his comrades who loved him so dearly. My deepest sympathy to you Kathy, who loved and cared for him all those years. He will be missed.

With love to you and Barbara,
Mary - mtiseo@sapartners.org

** High Priority **

Dear Ahmed,

I thank you for your email concerning Comrade Walter Sisulu. Please accept my condolences to you, to his immediate family, and to the larger ANC family of friends and fighters for freedom. I plan to be in Cape Town at the end of the month. Will call to see if we can meet. My fond regards to Barbara.

As ever,
Winston - Nagan@law.ufl.edu

Dear Brother K,
Last night on BBC news we learnt of the sad passing of this wonderful human being. Although I only met him a very few times, I was able through you, literature and the media to come to know Mr Sisulu as one of the most compassionate, moral and dignified of all South Africans. A number of MSU Faculty called to offer their condolences and sympathies to the Sisulu family. If I got a card with their names where should I send it? On a personal note, I know how close you were to "the old man" and how proud you are to be part of the Sisulu Clan, so from Ursula and me, our heartfelt sympathies to you and the family on this great loss to South Africa and the world.

Please write when you can and let me know about the sympathy card. Love to MPH, Mr L, Kimbo and our other friends.

Bob.

Robert D. Vassen - vassen@pilot.msu.edu
Associate Director, English Language Center, A 714 Wells Hall, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI. 48824-1027, Phone (517) 353 0800; FAX (517) 432 1149

Dear Brother K

I have no doubt that there is an address to which one can send messages. If you do have it, please forward.

The BBC produced a quick obituary. With it they asked for comments of any nature. Naturally I sent mine early this am. All this was online.

Love to all

Tom - tomvassen@talk21.com

Printable version

Walter Sisulu: Your thoughts

Anti-apartheid fighter Walter Sisulu, a veteran of the struggle against white rule in South Africa and long-time friend of Nelson Mandela, has died aged 90.

Born in 1912, the same year that the African National Congress (ANC) was founded, Mr Sisulu rose to become the deputy president of the organisation.

"His absence has carved a void. A part of me is gone," Mr Mandela was quoted as saying.

How do you think he will be remembered and what will his legacy be?

Your comments:

He fought the good fight Lloyd Siamunyanga, Zambia

He fought the good fight. It is now up to present leadership to use the foundation as a springboard to prosperity. Lloyd Siamunyanga, Zambia

A comrade never dies, but falls on his knee. The same thing happened to comrade Sisulu. History has been written. Cyprian Gumede, Johannesburg, South Africa

A great man, although Mandela takes the most credit, you can't deny the immense work that Mr Sisulu did to transform the politics of not only South Africa, but through his influence the rest of the developing world. Jonathan, UK

He is a man of substance. May his family celebrate his passing and not cry, because he has accomplished his mission and fulfilled his purpose on earth. May his soul continue to touch those who are left behind and may we find strength in his deeds. Nanki Hoaeane, South Africa

I hope the leadership of South Africa remembers the beliefs and principles that Walter Sisulu held true and lived for Andrew Lees, UK/South Africa

When I grew up in SA, it was a case of them and us, but the old freedom fighters: Mandela, Sisulu, Tambo and the like have made it a country for everyone to proud of and a shining example of success through perseverance for the rest of the world to see. Today, I feel a genuine sadness that a great man has passed on. I hope and pray that the leadership of South Africa remembers the beliefs and principles that outstanding human beings like Walter Sisulu held true and lived for. Nkosi sikilel' Afrika. Andrew Lees, UK/South Africa

Africa has lost one of its gallant sons, a true revolutionary, and a man of firm beliefs. Were it not for him and others like him, black South Africans would still be under apartheid rule. Thank you sir, your cause was justified. God bless Africa and give her peace. Moses, Oxford, UK

We will miss his humility, honesty, integrity and uprightness Chinedu Ibeabuchi, Lagos, Nigeria

The death of Walter Sisulu is a great loss to the continent. He believed in the equality of mankind and worked towards it dogmatically and sincerely. We will miss his humility, honesty, integrity and uprightness. May his soul rest in perfect peace.

Chinedu Ibeabuchi, Lagos, Nigeria

He is a role model for all the politicians, as he helped to bring democracy in SA, but he did not take anything out of it and was still living in Soweto. May Allah send his soul to heaven.

Mushtaq Ahmed Memon, Japan/Pakistan

The world has lost one of the strongest voices of peace and humanity that shone through the dark days of apartheid.

Alan, UK

A man of greatness who did not seek the limelight, but worked tirelessly for those who had no voice, no matter what the personal cost.

Jon, UK

Africa lost her son and we lost a role model that will be hard to replace.

Temesghen Araya, Eritrea

He was a man of integrity and had the conviction to pursue the liberation of the people of S Africa from apartheid. His name like those before him will be remembered for the courage and suffering he endured for liberating others.

Abdulai Bah, Guinea

I served in South Africa as a US diplomat, 1990-95, and felt close up Mr Sisulu's remarkable influence on the process of positive change. The world has lost a giant for the cause of human justice but his contributions will benefit the world forever. My prayers are with his family.

Bismarck Myrick, USA

A giant amonst giants.

RIP. Mark Cole, Wales

Walter Sisulu is truly a national hero of South Africa where he will be remembered for centuries to come. He is an inspiration to all that love their freedom.

Ogbazion Haile, California

He sacrificed 26 years of his life and never asked something in return except the wellfare of his people. There are only a few people like him in the history of mankind. God bless his soul.

Bayat Mokhtari, Iran

A great person from whom the world needs to learn how to lead your society, even when you are under the compression of the world conquerors.

Hemraj Bhandari, Nepal

You were the voice for the voiceless Sadek

Ali, USA

You were the voice for the voiceless. May you rest in peace. Sadek

Ali, USA

As we progress through the 21st century, Walter Sisulu will remain as an inspiration to an Africa haunted by a legacy of oppression and daunted by a difficult future. He is someone all Africans can appreciate in a continent plagued by despotic and self-centered leaders. For Mandela, he was someone who stood "head and shoulders" above everyone at the ANC. I will remember him simply as "good old grandpa Sisulu". He was truly one of a kind.

Mohamed, Canada

South Africa, indeed the world, has lost the most unselfish, unwavering, principled and long-suffering leader in modern times. A great statesman, Walter Sisulu will remain an icon for those that fight and earn their freedom.

Ilizwe, Canada

He saw his dreams fulfilled. That is the most important thing.

Ajos, UK

Hopefully, he'll be remembered as the horrible anti-American socialist that he and Mandela were!

Eric, USA

There is time for everything. Sisulu has been and will be a monument for the whole continent. His glory continues to shine. For to Eric you can keep your American attitude to yourself, none of us needs to know how you feel

Julius Akwalu, Kenya

If Eric, USA, sees Walter Sisulu and Nelson Mandela as 'horrible anti-American socialists', presumably he would prefer a return to the evils of apartheid.

Peter, England

Date: 06 - 05 - 2003
Re: Request for article paying tribute to Tata Walter Sisulu
From: Jimmy Seepe City Press Newspaper

Dear Mr Kathrada

We in City Press would like to share with you the pain that you and the ANC in general as well as the Sisulu family are going through following the passing away of Tata Sisulu.

We want to take this opportunity to invite you to pay a special tribute to a person who you had shared great moments with during your time on Robben Island alongside other stalwarts of the struggle such as Tata Nelson Mandela.

Mindful of the time constraints you might have, we would greatly appreciate it if you could pen something for us that we would love to share with the nation through our pages.

We will be publishing a special paper that would be paying tribute to Tata Sisulu and it would be a great honour if you could accept our invitation. We would appreciate it if you could write something between 800 and 900 words.

We greatly appreciate it if you could come back to us to indicate if you could be able to write the article for us. The deadline for it is on Thursday or Friday morning depending as to