17 July 2008
The African National Congress joins the people of South Africa, the continent and the world in wishing former President Nelson Mandela well on his 90th birthday tomorrow (18 July 2008).
Madiba's life has closely followed the history of the struggle of our people. He has been a leading figure at all crucial moments in the history of the movement over the last six decades.
He was instrumental in the formation of the ANC Youth League in the 1940s, and in the revitalisation of the ANC itself. He was the Volunteer-in-Chief in the defiance campaigns of the 1950s. Central in the formation of Umkhonto we Sizwe in 1961, Madiba became its first Commander-in-Chief.
Even during his 27 years in prison, his presence was felt in the international campaign against apartheid, of which he became the most prominent symbol. Even before his release, he initiated talks with the apartheid government that, together with the efforts of the ANC in exile, paved the way for negotiations and the transition to democracy in the 1990s.
As the country's first democratically elected President, Nelson Mandela led South Africa into a brave new age, shedding the animosities of the past and building a brighter future for all its people.
As part of its tribute to Madiba, the ANC is holding a mass rally at on Saturday 2 August at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Tshwane for a day of celebration of this national hero, leader and icon.
This is an opportunity for ordinary South Africans to wish Madiba well and to celebrate with him.
The ANC is calling on people from around the country to join us as we honour Madiba for a life spent in the service of his people, for his remarkable vision and courage, and for his tireless devotion to the cause of freedom.
As we celebrate Madiba's 90th birthday with music, dance and song, we will pledge ourselves to uphold the values and principles to which he has dedicated his life.
On this day we make a solemn promise to Madiba that we will continue his struggle for freedom, to achieve a better life for all South Africans.
Let us celebrate Madiba!
Let us celebrate the people!
Let us celebrate freedom!
More information:
Steyn Speed 082 572 7304
Vuyisa Manyandela 011 376 1052