A precious jewel for SA and Gujarat

MILLIONS of hearts saddened, and tears rolled down, as the sad news of the passing of Ahmed Kathrada spread across the nation. It is a heartfelt sign of how his revolutionary fight has touched colleagues of all political stripes.

With his death, the bright light of a moral titan has been dimmed. It would be impossible to find someone as universally revered as a freedom-fighter icon.

Born in South Africa, but his ancestral connection was rooted in Gujarat Province of India.

He was not only a precious jewel for South Africa, but he was an intriguing stalwart in Gujarat who enhanced a reputation as a Gujarati statesman.

Affectionately dubbed Kathy, he dedicated life-long scarification for the South African nation, to emancipate it from the apartheid regime.

He accelerated the apartheid struggle with Mandela and remained always forefront, from street agitation to Robben Island imprisonment.

His legacy is vast and complex. He coloured his years as a revolutionary fired by a need for justice.

He moved his legendary journey from revolutionary to statesman with dignity and grace.

He will be remembered and admired for his moral strength. His fearlessness in the face of those who would crush him, and his refusal to turn away from wrongs and sufferings.

They are qualities we should all continue to strive for.

May the Almighty forgive him and grant him best place in paradise.