The African National Congress (ANC) President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a powerful and inspiring memorial lecture in honor of the late struggle icon, Oliver Reginald Tambo. The event, which took place at the University of Johannesburg’s Soweto campus, was attended by thousands of people from all walks of life, including government officials, ANC members, and members of the public.
In his speech, President Ramaphosa paid tribute to OR Tambo, who was a founding member of the ANC and served as its president from 1967 to 1991. He described Tambo as a visionary leader, a fearless fighter for freedom, and a unifier who dedicated his life to the struggle against apartheid.
President Ramaphosa highlighted Tambo’s role in the formation of the ANC Youth League, which played a crucial role in mobilizing young people to join the struggle for liberation. He also spoke about Tambo’s leadership during the difficult times of the apartheid regime, where he kept the ANC united and focused on the ultimate goal of a free and democratic South Africa.
The President also emphasized Tambo’s commitment to non-racialism and his belief in the unity of all South Africans. He reminded the audience that Tambo’s vision of a united, non-racial, and democratic South Africa is still relevant today and should guide us in our efforts to build a better future for all.
President Ramaphosa also used the opportunity to reflect on the current challenges facing the country, such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality. He acknowledged that these issues are a result of the legacy of apartheid and the failure of the government to address them adequately. However, he assured the audience that the ANC is committed to addressing these challenges and building a better South Africa for all.
The President also spoke about the importance of unity within the ANC and urged all members to work together towards the common goal of a better South Africa. He emphasized that the ANC is a broad church that accommodates different views and opinions, but it is essential to remain united and focused on the party’s core values and principles.
President Ramaphosa also touched on the issue of corruption, which has been a major concern for many South Africans. He reiterated the ANC’s commitment to fighting corruption and called on all members to uphold the values of integrity and accountability. He reminded the audience that the ANC was founded on the principles of selflessness and service to the people, and corruption goes against these values.
In his closing remarks, President Ramaphosa called on all South Africans to honor OR Tambo’s legacy by working towards a united, non-racial, and prosperous country. He urged the youth to take up the baton and continue the struggle for a better South Africa, just as Tambo and his generation did.
The memorial lecture was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by OR Tambo and other struggle heroes and heroines in the fight against apartheid. It also served as a call to action for all South Africans to work together towards building a better future for the country.
The event was a resounding success, and President Ramaphosa’s speech was met with thunderous applause and standing ovations. His words of inspiration and motivation left the audience feeling proud to be South African and determined to continue the struggle for a better tomorrow.
In conclusion, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s delivery of the OR Tambo memorial lecture was a fitting tribute to a great leader and a reminder of the values and principles that the ANC stands for. His message of unity, non-racialism, and commitment to fighting corruption resonated with the audience and served as a call to action for all South Africans. Let us honor the legacy of OR Tambo by working towards a united, non-racial, and prosperous South Africa.
