‘Uncle Kathy’ was a shining example for youth today
AHMED Mohammed Kathrada, fondly known as Uncle Kathy, would have turned 89 today.
His life was an example to young people, as he was an extraordinary activist from the very young age of 12 and assumed his first leadership role at the age of 17.
By the age of 34 he had been arrested 18 times on political grounds, not counting protracted periods of house arrest.
He served 26 years and three months of a life imprisonment sentence, 18 years of which on Robben Island.
Cde Kathrada was a tireless worker for our freedom and liberation, and despite being awarded the highest national order of Isithwalandwe in 1st Class, Gold he remained humble and dignified to the very end.
His life and struggle brought him into contact with other great heroes of our Struggle whom he revered – but vigorously engaged.
Young people today can learn volumes from this colossal figure in our history: develop enquiring minds, don’t shy away from debate and engaging issues of national importance, be passionate about what you do without losing your dignity or decorum, keep focus and grounded and, no matter how magnificent your accomplishments, remain humble and dignified.
Today Uncle Kathy is celebrated by the nation as one of its proudest sons whose life symbolised devotion to Struggle and tireless work for peace, justice, honour and dignity. He will always be an inspiration to us and to generations to come.
His birthday this year comes over the Islamic period of the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage and the Festival of Sacrifice (Eid-ul-Adha).
How fitting for a man who lived his entire life as a symbol of sacrifice.
It is on such occasions that we miss those whom we love the most.
We send happy birthday wishes and say thanks to Aunty Zohra Kathrada, Cde Barbara Hogan and the entire Kathrada family for a life well lived, a struggle well fought and well-deserved rest. May his soul rest in peace. We wish the entire Muslim community of the world a joyous period of sacrifice and a blessed Eid-ul-Adha.
Wishing you goodness, blessings, love and peace today and the entire year ahead.