Former liberation movement members who fought for South Africa’s freedom and passed away in exile have finally been returned to their homeland. The remains of 49 freedom fighters, including a former secretary-general of the African National Congress (ANC), have been repatriated from other African nations.
Many South Africans questioned why it took so long for the government to bring back the remains, with some expressing frustration over the delays.
**Fallen Heroes Repatriated**
According to eNCA, the fighters, many of whom were from the Pan-Africanist Congress (PAC) and the ANC, had died while in exile, primarily in countries like Zimbabwe and Zambia. Among those repatriated was former ANC Secretary-General Duma Ndlovu. His daughter was visibly emotional as her father’s remains were returned to South Africa.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to officiate the official homecoming ceremony on September 27, 2024, when the remains will be returned to their families.
**Public Reactions**
Many South Africans shared their views on the repatriation via Facebook. Sibusiso Ndlovu thanked the South African government for bringing back the freedom fighters. Tigere Zindonga expressed gratitude to the countries that allowed the reburial, while others like Alida Botha raised concerns about the costs involved and the lengthy process.
In a related story, Briefly News previously reported on the lingering trauma of apartheid survivors, highlighting how some still suffer from emotional scars decades after the oppressive regime ended.