VANDERBIJLPARK .- Sedibeng District Municipality (SDM) set the bar high when they rewarded the freedom of Sedibeng region to three struggle stalwarts at the Emerald Resort and Casino on Friday. The three Rivonia Trial struggle stalwarts are Ahmed Kathrada, Denis Goldberg and Andrew Mlangeni who was represented by his granddaughters at the event.
The Rivonia Trial was a trial that took place in South Africa between 1963 and 1964, in which ten leaders of the African National Congress were tried for 221 acts of sabotage designed to overthrow the apartheid system. This is the second time that the freedom of this district has been rewarded to anyone since it was first awarded to late President Nelson Mandela on May 25, 1999 in Sebokeng.
The auspicious event also saw community builders and top ten matriculants in the region being recognised. The event was led by Sedibeng District Municipality executive mayor Busisiwe Modisakeng and Emfuleni Local Municipality’s executive mayor, Simon Mofokeng. Midvaal Local Municipality’s executive mayor, Bongani Baloyi and Lesedi Local Municipality’s, mayor, Lerato Maloka were also in attendance. Speaking at the ceremony, Goldberg said he was happy to see many South Africans standing up and doing things for themselves. “I am optimistic about our future, people have started making things happen by themselves instead of always depending on government. Modisakeng said, “These icons have been consistent with a value system which was displayed in their selflessness and in their determination in combating apartheid and achieving democracy. “It is important to have the history of our country written down as it will benefit the coming generations,” she concluded.
