20/03/2024
Comrades and members of the ANC and ANCYL, as we bid each other goodnight, let us take a moment to reflect on the legacy of Peter Mokaba, a dedicated revolutionary and respected leader who left an indelible mark on our struggle for freedom and justice.
Comrade Peter Mokaba, was a fearless fighter who emerged as a leader during the 1976 uprisings. His involvement in school boycotts led to his expulsion from school, but he persevered and completed matric on his own in 1978. Undeterred by adversity, he enrolled at the University of the North in 1980.
Mokaba’s commitment to the cause saw him become a member of Umkhonto we Sizwe, where he participated in underground activities. He was detained under the Terrorism Act in 1977 and again in 1982, serving his sentence on Robben Island. His unwavering dedication continued as he worked for the United Democratic Front (UDF).
In 1987, Mokaba became the first president of the South African Youth Congress (SAYCO), which later transformed into the ANC Youth League after the unbanning of the ANC in 1990. His rallying cry, “Roar Young Lions, Roar,” resonated with the youth during the tumultuous years of the eighties and early nineties.
Mokaba’s journey extended to the halls of Parliament, where he served as a Member of Parliament and later as the Deputy Minister in the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism. His impact reached the highest echelons of the ANC, as he was elected to the National Executive Committee in 1991, 1994, and 1997.
Despite controversy surrounding his “Kill the Boer, Kill the Farmer” slogan, Mokaba remained revered by the youth. His legacy lives on, inspiring generations to continue the struggle for justice and equality.
As we have recently launched the ANCYL Peter Mokaba Volunteers in our provinces, let us draw strength from his unwavering commitment and remember that our fight is not in vain. Let us continue to roar like young lions, united in our pursuit of a better South Africa
⬛️🟩🟨🟥
