Mandela's dream of non-racial, just society still to be realised, says Mac Maharaj
Tuesday marks 35 years since former president Nelson Mandela was released from prison.
Former South African President Nelson Mandela takes the oath 10 May 1994 during his inauguration at the Union Building in Pretoria. Picture: AFP
JOHANNESBURG - Tuesday marks 35 years since former president Nelson Mandela was released from prison.
He was sentenced to life in prison after he was found guilty of treason in 1964.
Mandela served 27 years of that sentence.
His release from prison marked a significant change in the political landscape of the country- which was transitioning from a system of segregation to democracy.
ALSO READ: Ramaphosa says visit to Mandela's cell on Robben Island reminds him of his own time in prison
Anti-apartheid activist and Mandela’s friend, Mac Maharaj said South Africa still has to continue to fight for a just and equal society like the one Mandela envisioned.
“I think that areas of omission and commission in the last 30 years have led us into a position where the dream of an equal society founded on non-racialism and non-sexism is one that we still need to realise. It’s work in progress and it’s the kind of work in progress where we have to taken to account the mistakes we have done.”