MBOMBELA – President Cyril Ramaphosa yesterday delivered the inaugural Nokuthula Simelane Memorial Lecture at the University of Mpumalanga in Mbombela, Mpumalanga. The lecture, hosted by the Nokuthula Simelane Foundation, aims to create a national platform for discussions on democracy, social justice, human rights, gender equality, ethical leadership and nation-building.
He paid tribute to Nokuthula Simelane, a young freedom fighter who disappeared in 1983 after being abducted by apartheid security forces. Despite investigations over the years, her remains have never been found.The President described her disappearance as a painful reminder of the unresolved injustices of South Africa’s past and said the search for truth and accountability must continue.
Simelane was posthumously awarded the Order of Luthuli in Gold in 2024 for her bravery and contribution to the struggle for freedom. He added that, her legacy should inspire South Africans, particularly young people, to protect democracy and continue working towards a more equal and just society. The memorial lecture is also intended to keep alive conversations around truth, reconciliation and the unfinished business of South Africa’s democratic transition.
Picture source: GCIS/Presidency
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