Hon Speaker, as part of the 50th anniversary celebration of the ANC's armed wing uMkhonto weSizwe Military Veterans' Association, Rivonia trialists former President Nelson Mandela and Ahmed Kathrada were honoured for their crucial role in South Africa's armed struggle.
Madiba, the first Commander in Chief of uMkhonto weSizwe, and Ahmed Kathrada were jailed for life after the Rivonia trial and the ceremony honouring them was held to recognise their selfless contribution to our fight for freedom. In accepting Madiba's award, his granddaughter paid tribute to a range of MK cadres who included Solomon Mahlangu, Laloo Chiba, Mac Maharaj, Jerry Mosolodi, Nokuthula Simelane, Jeniffer Schreiner, Thandi Modise, Farida Khan and Veliswa Mhlauli.
Ahmed Kathrada reminded those present of the MK cadres who sacrificed their lives for our freedom, and spoke of Vuyisile Mini, who was hanged for refusing to testify against Wilton Mkwayi, and of Chris Hani, who was assassinated on 10 April 1993.
Today, there are those who colluded with the apartheid state or who indirectly benefited from the racial discrimination in force at the time who would like us to forget where we come from. They conveniently claim our history and our struggle icons, place obstacles in our path when we seek to pay homage to the upcoming ANC centenary and would like us to bury the issue of transformation. The ANC will remain the people's movement. Thank you. [Time expired.] [Applause.]