Image: SA Friends of Palestine's Arif Mohamed (Giri), Shakeel Bhaktawar, Cllr Naeem Patel, Yusuf Abramjee, Ambassador of Palestine to South Africa Hanan Jarrar, Hassona Aldramly and Ms Diana Rumhli
On Wednesday, November 29th, the Embassy of Palestine in South Africa, together with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) and the United Nations, celebrated the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People at the Freedom Park in Pretoria.
The event brought together diplomats, academics, political activists, government officials, and members of the media. It was a solemn occasion that aimed to commemorate and show support for the Palestinian people.
Speaking at the gathering, Ambassador of Palestine to South Africa, Hanan Jarrar, expressed her gratitude for the unwavering support of the South African government and its citizens. She emphasized how, since the beginning of Israel's oppressive actions against the Palestinians, the people of South Africa, regardless of their background, religion, or political affiliation, have taken to the streets to demonstrate their solidarity.
Mandla Mandela, Chief of the Mvezo Traditional Council and grandson of Nelson Mandela, delivered a powerful keynote address at the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People celebration. He began his speech by honoring the memory of President Yasser Arafat and his grandfather, Nelson Mandela, highlighting their deep friendship forged in the struggle for justice.
Seated from left: Masimba Tafirenyika, Chief Mandla Mandela, Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Alvin Botes, Ambassador Hanan Jarrar, Ambassador of Lebanon to South Africa Kabalan Franjieh and Ambassador Ashraf Suliman
He emphasized the significance of the United Nations International Day of Solidarity with Palestine and quoted President Arafat's words during his visit to South Africa, stating that the struggle for Palestine extends beyond the Palestinian people and belongs to the entire Muslim community. Mandela then referenced Nelson Mandela's words from a previous International Solidarity Day, underscoring the importance of not turning a blind eye to the struggles faced by others and the responsibility to stand against injustice.
He expressed his deep concern over the recent events in Palestine, describing them as a genocide unfolding in full view of the world. He drew parallels between the struggles of Apartheid South Africa and the current situation in Palestine, acknowledging the global response and mass protests in solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
Mandla praised the leadership of Qatar for their role in negotiating a ceasefire and urged all supporters to intensify the struggle and isolate Apartheid Israel through the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions Campaign.
He invited participants to honor the 10th anniversary of Nelson Mandela's passing and join the 5th International Solidarity with Palestine Convention taking place on the 3rd and 4th of December in Linbro Park.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance were Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Alvin Botes, Masimba Tafirenyika, the Director of the United Nations Information Centre in South Africa and Ambassador of Lebanon to South Africa Kabalan Franjieh. The vote of thanks was delivered by Ambassador Ashraf Suliman, while Ms. Shannon Ebrahim served as the Master of Ceremonies for the event.
Local organization SA Friends of Palestine also attended, further showcasing the strong bond between South Africa and Palestine.
The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle faced by the Palestinian people and the need for continued support from the international community.
From left: Raslouw Private Hospital's CEO Dr Ismail Mitha, Ambassador Hanan Jarrar, Ms Diana Rumhli and Yussuf Suliman
Local Pastor Alan Wainwright with Ambassador Hanan Jarrar and Hassona Aldramly
Image credit : Rabbie Serumula
