MKHIZE’S TRIBUTE

Minister of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Dr Zweli Mkhize pays tribute to Struggle veteran Paddy Kearney:

IT IS with shock and sadness for us to pay tribute and bid farewell to Patrick “Paddy” Kearney whom we have known for almost 40 years as a director at Diakonia in Durban, and also as a leader and a friend.

He was a kind, quiet and softspoken person with a warm and generous spirit.

He was a dedicated servant of God who demonstrated his love for his people and his country through his selfless service to humanity.

He will be remembered as a fearless fighter for peace, tolerance and democracy.

Paddy made sure that the church in its diverse denominations was firmly on the side of justice for the workers, the poor, the oppressed and the downtrodden supporting their struggles.

He was the face of Diakonia that welcomed all who were pursued by apartheid forces, be they detainees or families whose relatives were persecuted or imprisoned or killed.

This placed Diakonia at the centre of our Struggle for liberation, giving protection and inspiration to our resistance against apartheid.

He was the glue that held our mass democratic movement, civic and faith-based organisations together to stand against apartheid.

Working with eminent leaders such as Archbishop Denis Hurley and other leaders of faith, he contributed in keeping the flame of freedom alight, thus encouraging those who were powerless to fight on while he counselled and supported those who were brutalised and tortured.

Diakonia became a centre for education and a home for campaigns against social ills, the fight against

HIV and Aids, the abuse of women and children, as well as against domestic violence.

Paddy was a giant who epitomised a non-racial future and unity of our people, determined to transform society to usher in a united, caring and compassionate South African nation.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends.

May his soul rest in eternal peace and rise in glory.