The African National Congress (ANC) in the Eastern Cape has expressed its sadness at the passing away of the liberation struggle stalwart and veteran trade unionist, Comrade Ramba Malgid Ntlebi after a short illness.
A dedicated and selfless freedom fighter, Comrade Ramba dedicated his life to the liberation and service of the people of South Africa.He was one of the volunteers that conducted door to door in the run up to the Congress of the People in Kliptown that adopted the Freedom Charter in 1955. He was instrumental in implementing the M Plan (forming House, Street and Block committees) in East London).
On his release from imprisonment in Roben Island, Comrade Ramba continued where he left off and worked underground with the likes of comrades Joe Mati, Mayoyo Mlanda and many others. He was instrumental in harbouring underground MK cadres while doing underground work of the ANC.
Ramba was also very instrumental in revival of unions in the Border Region especially the South African Allied Workers Union, African Food and Canning Workers Union as well as General Workers Union. His outstanding contribution was political training and mentorship of SAAWU leadership particularly shop stewards.
He was quite popular in explaining the struggle for liberation in isiXhosa. Obviously he did not escape the harassment by the Sebe Bantustan regime.
After the unbanning of the ANC and other political organizations in 1990, Comrade Ramba was part of the first Regional Executive Committee of the Border Region. At this stage Comrade Malgid Ntlebi was instrumental in organising traditional leaders in the Tsholomnqa and Ngqushwa areas. He worked very closely with the Makinana family.
The country has lost a disciplined veteran and a true revolutionary who sacrificed his youth and risked his life for the liberation of South Africa.
We are extremely proud and honoured to have had Comrade Ramba Ntlebi as one of our veterans. His sacrifices and courage to the struggle for the liberation of our people will always be cherished as we continue what he and others started. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and comrades .
Issued by:
ANC EC Communications
Enquiries
ANC Media & Liaison Officer
Judy Mpetsheni
Mobile No: 0636878267/0731176194
Gift Ngqondi
Head of Communications
Mobile No:0848439706/0849519924
