Deputy President, Kgalema Motlanthe and Rivonia trialists Ahmed Kathrada and Denis Goldberg joined 702’s morning presenter, John Robbie, for a live broadcast from Liliesleaf farm this morning.
The broadcast co-incided with the 49th anniversary of the apartheid polices’ raid on Liliesfarm. It was on this day , 11 July 1963, exactly 49 years ago, when prominent leaders of the apartheid struggle who went on trial with Nelson Mandela in what became known as the Rivonia Treason trial were arrested. It also attracted the attention of the global community to the atrocities of the apartheid system.
Liliesleaf is now an interactive and experiential tribute to the political leaders who once shared their ideas, beliefs and ideologies against apartheid in this place.
Deputy President Motlanthe is the chair of the Liliesleaf Trust and he spoke to John about the significance of honouring those who fought in the struggle while striving to find new heroes who are dealing with the challenges we face as a nation now, and are working to build a better South Africa.
Motlanthe hit back at critics who claim the South African “rainbow” is unraveling, urging every citizen to play their role in the country’s democracy.
He said in the face of the textbook crisis, and others like it, today’s leaders must focus on current problems and not rest on the shoulders of struggle giants, “We have to all ensure that we have a participatory democracy – rather than one that is left to politicians and leaders”.
Ahmed Kathrada and Denis Goldberg who were both arrested in the raid spoke about their experience 49 years ago, painting a picture of South Africa and the ANC at the time.
They agreed with John that the Liliesleaf centre recounts the history of that time without apportioning blame, but looking forward to the future of the country. Goldberg urged listeners to become an active part of that future.
He quoted former President Mandela’s who said that he was “a leader among leaders”, referring to all those who sacrificed so much for the struggle against apartheid.
He pointed out that everyone who stood up against the system was leading the change at that time and in the spirit of Lead SA, called on South Africans to do the same now.
“We now need leaders at every level,” said Goldberg. From government to trade unions, civil society and families,” he said.
“It’s not enough to dream. You have to act. Stop begging, stop demanding and lead!” he said.
John also spoke to Liliesleaf Trust CEO, Nicholas Wolpe about the remarkable stories that have been uncovered through the research that the Trust has done.
These stories are now displayed for visitors to learn from. Numerous listeners called in with stories of their own from that time.
Liliesleaf farm, based in Rivonia is a world class educational attraction that is open to the public. Visit www.liliesleaf.co.za for details.
Deputy President, Kgalema Motlanthe, with Talk Radio 702′s John Robbie.
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