ANC Statements

 The African National Congress mourns the sad passing of liberation struggle veteran, thought leader and cultural activist, Comrade Vho-Rashaka Ratshiṱanga passed away in the early hours of Monday, 28th of November 2022. 

Comrade Vho-Ratshiṱanga’s unparalleled contribution in the liberation struggle and cultural revolution, saw apartheid gradually yet conclusively fall on its knees, ushering in a democracy and freedom that are enjoyed by all the country’s citizens today. 

Born in 1933 in Venda, Vho-Rashaka Frank Ratshiṱanga landed his name to almost all the various aspects of the struggle, working closely with the communities as a teacher, a migrant worker, a cultural activist and an ANC underground operator. 

Comrade Vho-Ratshiṱanga shared a close affinity with rural communities in the then Northern Transvaal, leading to him becoming a founder member of the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (CONTRALESA), by virtue of being born into Traditional Leadership. 

Former President Kgalema Motlanthe bestowed, on Comrade Vho- Ratshiṱanga the National Order of the Baobab in Bronze in March 2009. Comrade Ratshitanga passes at a time when the African National Congress is poised to elect new leadership during the upcoming 55th National Conference to drive its renewal and unity programme. We call on our members embrace the values that comrade Ratshitanga espoused, that of humility and discipline. 

The African National Congress dips its revolutionary banners in honour of the life and struggles of Comrade Vho-Ratshiṱanga in service to his people. 

We extend our deepest condolences to Vho-Ratshiṱanga’s family, friends and comrades during this difficult period. May they find solace in knowing that their loss is shared by the entire nation. 

May Comrade Vho-Ratshiṱanga’s soul rest in peace and his spirit live longer! 

END 

ISSUED BY THE AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS 

Enquiries 

Pule Mabe 

National Spokesperson 

0716234975