President Ramaphosa honours fallen freedom fighters

The long-awaited return of the remains of fallen freedom fighters from exile was met with emotion and gratitude as President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a moving address at Freedom Park in Tshwane on Saturday.

The repatriation of these heroes and heroines symbolises the restoration of their citizenship, their return to their families, and their rightful place in the history of a free and democratic South Africa.

In his speech, President Ramaphosa highlighted the sacrifices made by these brave activists who fought against the brutal apartheid regime, which was declared a crime against humanity.

Their dedication to the cause of freedom, even at the cost of their own lives, serves as a powerful reminder of the price of liberty and the importance of unity and solidarity in the struggle for justice.

The President expressed his gratitude to the governments and peoples of Zambia and Zimbabwe for their support in sheltering and caring for our compatriots during their time in exile.

 He emphasised the need to work together to promote the memorialisation of our shared struggles and to ensure that the contributions of these African freedom fighters are known and appreciated by future generations.

As the remains of these heroes and heroines are laid to rest on South African soil, President Ramaphosa called on all South Africans to honour their memory by striving for a society based on democratic values, social justice, and fundamental human rights.

He stressed the importance of building a nation where all people are free and equal, and where the divisions of the past are overcome through unity and reconciliation.

The President also acknowledged the efforts of various departments, institutions, and individuals who worked tirelessly to make the repatriation of these remains possible.

He announced the continuation of the Exile Repatriation Project, which aims to bring home the remains of fallen freedom fighters from several other countries, ensuring that their names and contributions are recognised and commemorated.

President Ramaphosa reiterated the commitment of South Africa to international peace, justice, and human rights, pledging to stand against any form of colonialism or apartheid anywhere in the world.

He called on all South Africans to honour the legacy of these freedom fighters by being agents of change and working towards a better Africa and a better world for all.

The return of these heroes and heroines from exile is not only a moment of remembrance and reflection, but also a call to action to continue the struggle for freedom, equality, and justice for all.

The sacrifices of these brave individuals will forever inspire us to uphold the values of democracy, unity, and solidarity as we strive to build a better future for our nation and our people.