‘Uncle Kathy’ showing signs of recovering
STRUGGLE veteran Ahmed Kathrada is slowly recovering, much to the relief of well-wishers who gathered yesterday at Liliesleaf Farm in Rivonia.
His condition is said to have improved in the last 48 hours.
“He’s no longer in a sedated state. The seizures from the operations have stopped and his speech has improved, although it will take time.”
This is according to Ahmed Kathrada Foundation chief executive Neeshan Balton, who addressed a number of visitors yesterday at Liliesleaf where an inter-faith prayer meeting was held for the struggle stalwart.
Balton said that while Kathrada’s condition was unpredictable, he had made significant progress.
Numerous messages continue to flood in from South Africa and abroad.
Balton said Kathrada, who is one of three surviving Rivonia triallists, still had an immense contribution to make.
“His desire towards the end of last year was to reach beyond the ANC.
“He wanted us to organise a trip to Robben Island with DA leader Mmusi Maimane and EFF leader Julius Malema (to engage them as young leaders, and not about their respective parties),” he said.
Balton said Liliesleaf was an appropriate venue to gather for inter-faith prayer and to wish the anti-apartheid activist well.
“We are confident he will recover and that he will tell the mayor (Herman Mashaba) that he is a free man of the city and to take his water bill to him,” he joked.
Balton also condemned the reports of Kathrada’s death that had circulated on social media recently, saying these were malicious and callous.
“The family will give a statement if his condition deteriorates,” he said, adding that the foundation would continue giving updates on its social media pages.
Foundation chairman Derek Hanekom said the day was just to encourage Kathrada, also referred to as “Uncle Kathy”, to get better soon as he has been an inspiration to all, while struggle icon Sophie de Bruyn said their presence was to reassure Kathrada of their love and prayers.
“You’re a fighter. You’ve always been a fighter. We ask that you don’t give up. We are with you,” she said.
Gauteng MEC for Education, Panyaza Lesufi, MEC for Transport Ismail Vadi and Mashaba were also present to convey their messages of support.