South Africa celebrates Winnie Madikizela-Mandela's 80th birthday
Updated | By Slindelo Masikane
Struggle stalwart Winnie Madikizela-Mandela celebrates her 80th birthday today, the latest milestone in the life of one of South Africa's most beloved revolutionaries.
Madikizela-Mandela is one of the most controversial political figures in the country. She was a potent symbol of the anti-apartheid struggle with her then-husband, the iconic Nelson Mandela, for nearly three decades.
Fraud and murder allegations, however, tainted the reputation of the woman dubbed the mother of the nation.
A gala dinner will be held Monday evening in honour of Madikizela-Mandela.
Madikizela Mandela's 80th birthday has been celebrated all month long in the run up to her big day.
Yesterday, the ANC women's league painted Vilikazi Street, where she used to live with Madiba, green and gold. Earlier this month celebrations also took place in Cape Town.
Madikizela-Mandela also used the spotlight to add her voice to the debate around the ANC's poor performance in the elections, as well as the apparent divisions within the party.
Stopping short of calling for President Jacob Zuma to step down, she did say she believes the ANC is in need of new leadership.
Mama Winnie tonight #Winnie80th pic.twitter.com/0qLOXEutNK
— RSA Min of Sport (@MbalulaFikile) September 26, 2016
Just had a super delightful chat with the inimitable birthday queen Mam @winniemandela wishing her #HappyBirthday #Winnie80th https://t.co/g0FWo6OjMD
— Adv Thuli Madonsela (@ThuliMadonsela3) September 26, 2016
Message from President Zuma: Happy birthday Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela as you turn 80 years old today https://t.co/JbQPmO6x9F
— PresidencyZA (@PresidencyZA) September 26, 2016
Happy Birthday to Mam' @winniemandela. We wish you many more years to come. #WinnieMandela #Winnie80th pic.twitter.com/Rr4M4vY3cL
— Kaya FM 95.9 (@kayafm95dot9) September 26, 2016
Show's Stories
-
Another epic week of fishing in KZN
It has been another bumper week of fishing in KZN. Catch Vinesh Soogreem...
East Coast Breakfast 6 hours ago -
Beyonce lookalike takes internet by storm
A makeup challenge video went viral, not just for the challenger’s skill...
Stacey & J Sbu 13 hours ago