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Dikgang Moseneke: Madiba was my father on Robben Island

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Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke says he is saddened by the passing of former President Nelson Mandela, who he says was like a father to him on Robben Island.

Speaking to journalists shortly after arriving at Mandela’s home in Houghton, Johannesburg, on Friday morning, Moseneke said when he was imprisoned on Robben Island at the age of 15, the former statesman was a father figure to him.

“I am very sad. You know that I grew up under tata on Robben Island. He was like a father there and I was a small, young man. Also, we were prisoners at the same time.

“And that association has been there forever. It was me who he called out to come and run the elections in [1994] and I have remained a faithful cadre of our country inspired by him.”

At the age of 15, Moseneke was among the first few activists to be sentenced by the apartheid government after being arrested, detained and convicted for participating in political activities as a member of the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC).

Moseneke spent 10 years on Robben Island, during which time he matriculated and obtained a BA (English & Political Science) and a B Juris through Unisa.

“And even now as a judge when I do my work, I remember so well all his ideals for our great country and I am trying to live them through my work as a judge the best I can by serving all of you as faithfully and honestly as I ever can.” – SAnews.gov.za

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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.