Ahmed Kathrada passes away at 87
The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation confirmed early on Tuesday morning that the struggle icon died peacefully in his sleep in a Johannesburg hospital.
"We are deeply saddened to announce the passing on of ANC veteran Ahmed Kathrada this morning, at the Donald Gordon Hospital in Johannesburg," the Foundation said.
Kathrada passed away peacefully after a short period of illness, following surgery to the brain.
The Executive Director of the Foundation, Neeshan Balton, confirmed that the anti-apartheid struggle veteran "breathed his last today".
"This is great loss to the ANC, the broader liberation movement and South Africa as a whole. Internationally, he was staunch in his support for the Palestinian struggle. 'Kathy' was an inspiration to millions in different parts of the world," said Balton.
Kathrada Foundation chairperson Derek Hanekom was overcome with emotion saying he has lost a "revolutionary mentor and dear friend".
"Comrade Kathy was a gentle, humane and humble soul. He was a determined revolutionary who gave his entire life to the liberation struggle in our country," he added.
Kathrada will be buried according to Muslim religious rights, details of which will be made publicly available in due course.
Fellow Robben Island prisoner, Laloo 'Isu' Chiba, says his comrade's death has left a deep vacuum in his life.
"I have worked with Kathy for over sixty years. He has been my strength in prison, my guide in political life and my pillar of strength in the most difficult moments of my life. Now he is gone," said a visibly shaken Chiba.
Kathrada had an illustrious political career having served between 1994 and 1999 as the parliamentary counsellor to late President Nelson Mandela.