Oliver Tambo and Freedom Day 1967
“This year, JUNE 26 is of special significance for all opponents of colonialism and white minority rule in Southern Africa. In Mozambique, the allies of fascist South Africa are suffering serious reverses from FRELIMO forces. In Angola, the Portuguese are straining their resources to hold the march of the MPLA militants. The Ian Smith regime despite the British Government’s guarantees against the use of force, is in the throes of a rising armed struggle. SWAPO forces have entered South West Africa and drawn blood from the South African racists.”
“The African revolution has rolled down to South Africa’s doorstep. It cannot be too long before the flames of freedom sweep in to consume the evil forces that have plagued our country for centuries.”
“Certainly, our struggle will be hard and bitter. But certainly also, the sands of time are running out for the racists and oppressors, and each year JUNE 26 heralds the approaching hour of reckoning. To hasten that hour, the ANC summons any who have strayed away from the path of revolution to return to the fold.”
“We call upon all our people in and outside South Africa and on all our friends and supporters throughout the world to rally behind the struggle for liberation led by the African National Congress in South Africa. THAT IS THE CALL OF JUNE 26.”
– Oliver Tambo (26 June 1967) –
Source:O.R. Tambo, “South Africa Freedom Day: A Call to All Revolutionary For
