The ANC in KwaZulu-Natal is flabbergasted by the announcement made by the Democratic Alliance (DA) denigrating one of the greatest freedom fighters ever produced by South Africa, Oliver Reginald Tambo.

Speaking on SABC’s PM Live News Show this afternoon, Ms Desiree Van der Walt said it will be wrong to rename Johannesburg International Airport after OR TAMBO because according to her party "he did not contribute to nation-building like Mandela".

It is shocking to hear such a statement from a party that has always disputed that it does not represent the aspirations of the historically oppressed masses of this country.

The outstanding and sterling role played by OR Tambo in the founding of the non-racial democratic South Africa we live in today, is recognized throughout the world. He single-handedly led the mobilization of the international community against apartheid for almost thirty years. His entire excellent leadership brilliance cannot be measured by any standards in a media statement like this one. It is therefore sad and scandalous to hear the DA saying this liberation icon does not deserve to be honoured. Surely this party must bury its head in a sand dune of shame.

Issued by:

ANC Communications Dept. Contact Provincial Spokesperson, Mtholephi Mthimkhulu, at 0827029729 or 0828837964