Nokuthula Simelane, Ignatius Mthebule among 32 to receive national orders
Anti-apartheid activist Nokuthula Simelane was honoured with the Order of Luthuli for her contribution to the struggle for the country's democracy.
Simelane, who was a member of the ANC military wing, uMkhonto we Sizwe disappeared in Johannesburg in September 1983.
She was abducted, tortured, killed, and buried by the apartheid security branch.
The orders were bestowed on Tuesday during a ceremony held at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Tshwane.
President Cyril Ramaphosa said several of the recipients of this year’s Order of Luthuli were brutally killed by the apartheid regime.
Other recipients included anti-apartheid activist Mawilliams Kekana, who was posthumously honoured for her generosity and courageous act of sheltering freedom fighters when it was illegal to align with revolutionaries.
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Student activist and leader associated with the Azanian Student Organisation (AZASO) Ignatius ‘Iggy’ or ‘Gab’ Mthebule was also honoured for his fight against apartheid.
"He is among many lost sons and daughters, whose demise in the hands of security police remains unknown, as he disappeared without a trace. This was at the height of political upheaval, where opposition was brutally silenced. Despite his disappearance, he left an indelible mark of courage and leadership," said Ramaphosa.
The president said all the recipients had played an invaluable role in giving birth to free South Africa.
"Our nation owes each of them a great debt. By bestowing these National Orders, we want to ensure that their contributions are recognised and spoken of by generations to come.
“The recipients of the National Orders are chosen by the South African people themselves. It is the South African people who make nominations for consideration. This is most appropriate because the recipients are the heroes and heroines of the entire nation.
“The truest test of heroism is that these acts are not done for the sake of name, prestige, fortune or fame. They are done out of conscience and an unwavering sense of responsibility. They are born of a burning quest for social justice," added Ramaphosa.
