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The African National Congress commends the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, the Department of Arts and Culture, Department of Transport and the Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) for their respective roles in the successful renaming of Johannesburg Airport to OR Tambo International Airport.
The renaming process, including the period of public consultation, has contributed to a better understanding and appreciation among South Africans of the critical role of Oliver Tambo in the achievement of democracy in the country.
It is a fitting tribute to an outstanding son of the South African soil, a great African and an exceptional internationalist.
As the head of the democratic movement for close on three decades - from the first dark days of illegality and exile until the dawn of democracy - Oliver Tambo was responsible, more than any other person, for convincing the global community of nations that the South African people were both entitled to the basic human rights they were denied and should be supported in their courageous struggle to attain those rights.
We have a responsibility to make use of the naming of this important gateway to our nation to further inform and educate both our people and visitors about the character and contribution of Oliver Tambo.
As we prepare to commemorate next year the 90th anniversary of his birth, Oliver Tambo`s legacy should inspire every South African, and every person who passes through the halls of OR Tambo International Airport.
Issued by:
African National Congress
More information:
Smuts Ngonyama 082 994 2112