Media Statement by the
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma on the death of Govan Mbeki
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma
on behalf of all the South African Government delegation attending the World Conference
Against Racism in Durban, learnt with shock and sadness of the untimely death of the ANC
veteran and leader Dr. Govan Mbeki who passed away on Thursday 30 August 2001.
It is indeed fitting that on the eve of the World
Conference Against Racism we pay a special tribute to outstanding freedom fighters such as
Govan Mbeki who is one of the pioneers in the long and bitter struggle to create a
non-racial, non sexist democratic South Africa.
As we meet in Durban as representatives of our people and
recommit ourselves to the ideals of the struggle against racism, xenophobia and related
intolerances wherever and in whatever form they may manifest themselves.
We owe it to our heroes such as Govan Mbeki who have
devoted their lives to the struggle for national liberation, not only in South Africa but
indeed the entire continent of Africa, to join members of the international community
gathered in Durban in a spirit of solidarity, to develop a clear programme of action to
push back the frontiers of racism, xenophobia and related intolerances.
This Conference should be a turning point- for these
injustices have continued for far too long. We dare not fail!
We are convinced that Govan Mbeki will rest in peace in the
full knowledge that our country has laid a firm foundation to build a non-racial,
non-sexist and democratic South Africa.
The South African delegation at the World Conference
against Racism joins our people in all corners of our country in expressing our heartfelt
condolences to Mrs. Epainette Mbeki, the President and Mrs. Mbeki, Moeletsi, Linda,
family, friends and colleagues.
For more information contact Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853
Issued by Department of Foreign Affairs
P/Bag X152
Pretoria
0001
30 August 2001
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