Ahmed Kathrada's death has left 'a profound sense of loss'

Mkhize says Kathrada played a huge role in moulding the younger generation and they always drew lessons from him.

"His focus has been non-racialism which he lived. He was a teacher in terms of us understanding the founding values of the organisation with patriotism, humility and respect for all people. He was selfless in the approach that it did not matter what happened to him as long as the country was free," he said.

Kathrada died this morning in a Johannesburg hospital - weeks after under going an operation to remove blood clots on his brain.

His condition worsened after contracting pneumonia - which affected both his lungs. 

Mkhize says he was always fascinated by Kathrada's demeanour.

"He was very calm. When you looked at him and try to match this with the things that he has done - it was irreconcilable. It also showed you from the time he was as young as 18 years, he never looked back. When you say 'forward ever, backward never' that has really been his motto. Coming from the history of South African Indian Congress, towards African National Congress to Robben Island - he has been consistent," he said. 

Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says he's feeling a profound sense of loss over the passing of Ahmed Kathrada.

The struggle stalwart died this morning at a Johannesburg hospital at the age of 87.

Ramaphosa has sent his condolences to Kathrada's family and has described him as an unassuming freedom fighter, father and friend who will be remembered for his courage, compassion wisdom and tolerance.

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Meanwhile Chairperson of Ahmed Kathrada Foundation Board, Derek Hanekom says while there's great sadness over Kathrada's death, we should also celebrate the life he lived.

"When the moment comes, however you think you're ready for it, you're never really are. So when it happens, suddenly there's this sadness that descends upon you. There's another side of it and it's this immense sense of celebrating this wonderful man and this very strong feeling that the responsibility is now on our shoulders. We dare not let him down. He expects things from us and we should expect the same from ourselves," he said.  

"The huge strong feeling. We do not let him down. He meant so much to us. We don expect things of ourselves," he said.