Pretoria - Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa has condemned the arson attack at the O R Tambo Garden of Remembrance, which destroyed Tambo's statue, pictures and historic files of the ANC.
The memorial centre is located in Nkantolo, Bizana, in the Eastern Cape.
“It was with shock and disappointment that I learned about the vandalism and destruction of property at the OR Tambo Legacy Project at Bizana. This wanton violence resulted in the burning down of two rondavels, loss of priceless artefacts and documents, including the statue of Tambo at the Garden of Remembrance.
“It is a serious indictment and cause for embarrassment that this happens when we celebrate 20 Years of Democracy and Freedom,” he said.
Tambo was an international icon, who was widely recognised and respected for leading and mobilising the global anti-apartheid movement and he was pivotal in keeping the unity of the exiled liberation movement intact, which ultimately brought about democracy and freedom.
“This wanton violence that results in destruction of property, especially libraries and now heritage sites is not acceptable. Freedom comes with responsibility. It is time to unlearn behaviour that explodes into violence, destruction and death during service delivery protests.
“This self-destructive attitude neither contributes to nation building nor inspires pride. In fact, one of the values to be learnt from President OR Tambo is the superiority of sound argument and consensus seeking in dialogue among differing views,” said Minister Mthethwa.
The Minister appealed to citizens to engage in constructive dialogue that will turn them into agents of a peaceful, prosperous and democratic country.
Eastern Cape Premier Phumulo Masualle also condemned the arson attack of Tambo’s legacy.
“We bemoan this insensitive act and find it hard to believe that there are people who could commit such a crime with such impunity, lawlessness and contempt during the month that we celebrate the untarnished legacy of Oliver Reginald Tambo”.
Premier Masualle has welcomed the investigation by law enforcement agencies and is confident that the perpetrators will be brought to book.
“There are processes to be followed when communities have grievances and no matter the gravity of concerns, such lawless acts that spit and besmirch our history and our leaders must be condemned with the contempt they deserve,” he said. - SAnews.gov.za
