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19 August 2004

Northern Cape Premier, Dipuo Peters, has expressed shock and sadness at the death of a freedom fighter who once took off his robe in a gesture symbolising his severance from the white Dutch Reformed Church and their theological endorsement of the policies of apartheid and stepped down from the pulpit. Expressing her sympathy, Premier Peters said Beyers Naude’s name will go down in history as one of the people who dedicated their lived in fighting for the total emancipation of African people in the country.

Premier said his passing on in September, a month in which South Africans celebrate their heritage and reflect on their past. A month in which recognition is given to the contribution made by men and women who fought against apartheid.

Today we echo the words once uttered by our Former President Nelson Mandela in his speech at Naude’s 80th birthday celebration, saying “his strength of body and mind, and of that indomitable spirit that defied the evil of apartheid to make him a hero of our people”.

Naude will forever be remembered for his undying support and selfless sacrifice in the struggle for a democratic, and his fearless conviction of being an outcast amongst the Afrikaners and embraced by the black community for denouncing apartheid even on religious platforms.

The passing on of others, should serve as a constant reminder to us that we are on this earth only for a while.

May God grant the family, his wife Else and children strength and peace.

We have shared his life now we must cherish his wonderful memories. As an Afrikaner, a Christian and most of all a great son of the soil, he will always be a symbol of hope and reconciliation between blacks and whites.

May his soul rest in peace

Enquiries: Zodwa Thebeyapelo
Premier’s Office
Cell: 083 255 8849

Issued by: Office of the Premier, Northern Cape Provincial Government
19 August 2004