By Johnathan Paoli
The African National Congress has called on the party and its allies to recommit to the ideals of unity, peace and a country that belongs to all who live in it, that underpinned the legacy of its paramilitary wing, uMkhonto weSizwe (MK).
Commemorating the 63rd anniversary of the launching of the MK, ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri reaffirmed the intimate bond between uMkhonto weSizwe and the vision and mission of the party, warning against misrepresentation.
“Any attempt to distort this proud legacy or to form new entities claiming this mantle, is a betrayal of our history and the sacred memory of those who sacrificed their lives,” Bhengu-Motsiri said on Monday.
The wing was formed on 16 June 1961, under the leadership of former president Nelson Mandela among others, following the increasing military aggression by the apartheid state, such as the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre.
She praised MK as embodying discipline and unwavering commitment to freedom, equality and justice.
Prominent leaders in the wing included Oliver Tambo, Joe Slovo, Govan Mbeki, Joe Modise and Chris Hani.
Bhengu-Motsiri emphasised the historical significance of MK as a people’s army that played a critical role in dismantling apartheid, describing MK’s formation as a turning point in South Africa’s liberation struggle.
“The ANC had no option but to match the heavily militarised apartheid government,” she said.
Bhengu-Motsiri reiterated her party’s dedication to preserving the memory of MK fighters, while advancing the goals for which they fought for.
“Their courage inspires us to continue fighting the triple evils of poverty, unemployment and inequality,” she said.
She said the ANC would continue to lead transformation in the country, in the spirit of MK’s heroic struggle.
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