Carlo Peterson27 September 2024 | 5:17

ANC WC calls on public to advance Imam Abdullah Haron's legacy

Friday marks 55 years since the tragic death of Haron who died while in police custody in 1969.

ANC WC calls on public to advance Imam Abdullah Haron's legacy

Imam Abdullah Haron died in police custody in 1969. More than five decades later, the Western Cape High Court has set aside a 1970 inquest, to find the true cause of his death. Picture: Supplied

CAPE TOWN - The African National Congress (ANC), in the Western Cape, is on Friday calling on the public to recommit to the legacy of Imam Abdullah Haron.

Friday marks 55 years since the tragic death of Haron who died while in police custody in 1969.    

Last year, the Western Cape High Court overturned findings of an initial inquest into Haron's death ruling that he most likely died after being tortured by policemen.

ANC Western Cape spokesperson Khalid Sayed said Haron's legacy of sacrifice and fighting for the downtrodden must be honoured.

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"Imam Abdullah Haron was more than just a leader and an activist in the anti-apartheid struggle. Imam Abdullah Haron was an organic leader. He was an ethical leader. He was a man of faith. He was a man of the community."      

Sayed also called for justice as the National Prosecuting Authority deliberates on the role of a retired police officer - Johannes Burger - and whether he should face prosecution.

"Justice needs to serve as a matter of urgency. This will bring closure to the family. This will also bring a sense of relief to all victims of the racist apartheid State."  

Sayed added Haron's legacy should also inspire the building of a truly inclusive Western Cape.