Archbishop Tutu’s death represents another loss in the passing of the generation of gallant soldiers who relentlessly fought for social justice, human rights, freedom, peace and security for all. Tutu pitched his rebukes against social injustice well beyond the borders of South Africa, often assuaging the blows with humour and warmth.
During the darkest years of Apartheid in South Africa, Tutu’s was the voice that courageously called out the evil regime. When most of the ANC leaders were incarcerated, it was left for Tutu and others to campaign for their release and the end to apartheid. It was his “clear views and fearless stance”, which made him a “unifying symbol for all African freedom fighters”.

An icon for racial justice, Tutu was the first, after Apartheid was defeated, to call for reconciliation in the new democratic dispensation. He understood the symbolism, virtue and value of forgiveness to national regeneration and nation-building. This understanding was built on the immutable fact that eternal enmity does not have a place in progressive society and that forgiveness should be a virtue that humanity should consciously and genuinely embrace and sustain.

His life, philosophies and essences glowingly radiate what selflessness, courage and Ubuntu mean. As African workers, we were and will continue to be inspired by these values, his struggles and fine personality. We commit to further the struggle for social justice so that the service and sacrifices of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and his other fallen comrades and our forebears will not be in vain.

We thank him for bequeathing us with the values of Ubuntu, respect for human dignity, racial equality and undying commitment to social justice. We shall forever cherish these values.
The Iroko tree has fallen, Africa’s moral voice is gone!

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Kwasi Adu-Amankwah