‘A principled fighter for freedom’: ANC mourns Ismael Coovadia

The African National Coungress (ANC) has paid tribute to its long-standing member and South Africa’s former ambassador to Israel,Ismael Coovadia, who reportedly died from COVID-19 complications.

He has become the latest party member to succumb to the respiratory disease.

“This stalwart and veteran of our movement was a principled fighter for freedom and justice. He will be remembered for rejecting a gift of 18 trees planted in his honour by the Israeli regime, on the basis that the trees were planted on occupied Palestinian land. This rejection is consistent with his principled opposition to Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands and the callous brutality that Palestinians are subjected to on a daily basis,” the party said in a statement.

While the violent clashes between Hamas and Israel’s army have come to an end for now, the hostilities continue. The ANC has long maintained a pro-Palestine stance on the matter, and has called on South Africans to emulate Coovadia and embody his principles.

“As the apartheid Israeli regime continues with its campaign of brutality and forceful removals of Palestinians from their land, the ANC calls on the people of South Africa and all peace-loving people of the world to follow the noble example of principle and solidarity demonstrated by Ambassador Coovadia”

ANC on more pro-Palestine measures

The ANC has said that the best way to further pay tribute to Ismael Coovadia is to for the international community to put relentless pressure on the Israeli regime to “stop its campaign of systematic repression and ruthless brutality against the people of Palestine.”

“As we remember Ambassador Coovadia, let us make a solemn commitment that apartheid Israel will no longer be allowed to continue violating international law with impunity. In his name and honour, apartheid Israeli must be held accountable for perpetrating crimes against humanity,” the ANC said.

The party has also reaffirmed its commitment to Palestine and also sent its condolences to Coovadia’s family, friends and the broader democratic movement.

“We hope they will find solace in the knowledge that the whole nation shares in their grief,” it concluded.