20 February 2008
As Fidel Castro steps down as President of Cuba, we in the African National Congress pay tribute to a living legend.
The leadership of the ANC drew great strength from the commitment that Castro showed to the liberation of countries on the African continent and the eradication of poverty, hunger and disease all over the world. The Cuban people under the leadership of President Castro have displayed selfless internationalist commitment to the liberation of the oppressed people of Africa broadly and South Africa specifically.
As the African National Congress, we remain deeply indebted to the Cuban people for their unflinching sacrifices in the struggle against apartheid. Not only have they contributed to the transformation of our country but have continued to support our reconstruction and development efforts in South Africa by sending their doctors to work among our people particularly in the rural areas.
Cuba's selfless support for the struggle against the apartheid regime saw them deploy over 300,000 troops to Angola to battle alongside the Angolan army and Umkhonto weSizwe against the SADF. This battle, which saw the defeat of the apartheid forces, became known as the Cuito Cuanavale Battle. The victory of Cuito Cuanavale was a turning point in the struggle for the liberation of the oppressed majority in South Africa.
In his resting years, we wish comrade Fidel health and happiness.
Issued by African National Congress
For more information, contact Jessie Duarte on 079 506 6756.