The UDC is saddened by the loss of Cde Zindzi Mandela, former Ambassador to Denmark, recently Ambassador designate to Monrovia, Liberia.
Though daughter to outstanding struggle icons, Cde Nelson Mandela and Cde Winnie Mandela, she developed her own voice and became a symbol of resistance in her own right. Cde Zindzi Mandela played a critical role in the mass mobilization of black students against the then apartheid government in the 80s. She rose further in 1985 when she publicly read to the world her father’s response to the apartheid government’s offer of a conditional release of Nelson Mandela.
As a globally acclaimed poet, Ms Mandela played a meaningful role in advancing black poetry in the most difficult of periods. Her poetry revolved around black emancipation and advocacy for justice for all. She was defiant on the land question and remained a symbol of hope for millions of black South African youths and others in the diaspora who fought against white supremacy. She spoke loudly against racism and unemployment. Cde Zindi was not an apologist. She was a fearless cadre through her teenage years until her death as a diplomat.
The UDC fully identifies with the ideals which Cde Zindzi stood for. She played a profound role as a moral support to both Nelson Mandela and Winnie Mandela, especially during the liberation struggle which was punctuated by their incarceration.
The UDC thoughts are with the Mandela & Hlongwane families during this painful time. May Cde Zindzi Mandela rest in Peace.