During the 60th anniversary of FATAH–ANC relations at the OR Tambo Precinct in Ekurhuleni, leaders celebrated six decades of shared struggle. Dr. Sabri Saidam delivered a memorial lecture, reaffirming both movements’ commitment to justice, liberation, and the Palestinian cause.
The African National Congress (ANC) and the Palestinian movement FATAH commemorated the 60th anniversary of their historic relationship during a special ceremony at the OR Tambo Precinct in Ekurhuleni. The event celebrated six decades of political solidarity, shared resistance, and unwavering commitment to justice and liberation for oppressed peoples across the world.
Senior leaders, diplomats, political activists, and community members gathered to honour the deeply rooted partnership between South Africa’s ruling party and the Palestinian struggle. The commemoration served not only as a reminder of the past but also as a renewed commitment to strengthening the bond between both nations as they continue their pursuit of freedom.
FATAH Deputy Secretary-General Dr. Sabri Saidam delivered a powerful memorial lecture, emphasizing the historical significance of the alliance that began during the darkest periods of apartheid and military occupation. He described the relationship between FATAH and the ANC as “a brotherhood forged in struggle,” highlighting how both movements supported each other’s liberation journeys.
Dr. Saidam praised the ANC for standing firmly with Palestine over the decades and expressed deep gratitude for South Africa’s unwavering moral and political support. He noted that the Palestinian people continue to draw inspiration from South Africa’s successful fight against apartheid, which remains a global symbol of resistance and justice.
“Today, as we mark 60 years of partnership, we honour not only our shared history but also our shared destiny,” Dr. Saidam said. “The ANC has never abandoned the moral responsibility to stand with Palestine. Our bond remains a testament to the power of solidarity in the face of oppression.”
The ceremony also paid tribute to iconic leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Yasser Arafat, and OR Tambo, who played pivotal roles in nurturing ties between both movements. Mandela’s historic declaration—“South Africa will not be free until Palestine is free”—was echoed several times throughout the event, resonating deeply with the audience.
The Ambassador of Palestine to South Africa, H.E. Mrs. Hanan Jarrar, was present at the ceremony and reaffirmed the strength of diplomatic ties between Pretoria and Ramallah. She emphasized that South Africa has consistently remained one of the most vocal global supporters of Palestinian human rights, particularly in international legal forums and multilateral institutions.
Ambassador Jarrar also praised South Africa’s leadership in advocating for accountability, including its recent international legal actions aimed at protecting Palestinian civilians. She highlighted that the Palestinian people continue to view South Africa as a moral beacon in the global fight for justice.
Speakers at the commemoration stressed that the 60-year anniversary is not merely symbolic—it is a call to continue supporting the Palestinian struggle for freedom, dignity, and statehood. The event concluded with renewed pledges from both sides to strengthen cooperation in political advocacy, public mobilization, and international diplomacy.
As the world witnesses growing calls for justice in Palestine, the historic alliance between the ANC and FATAH stands as a reminder that global solidarity remains essential. For both movements, the message from Ekurhuleni was clear: the fight for freedom continues, and the commitment to liberation is stronger than ever.
