The National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (NEHAWU) has learnt with shock and sadness of the untimely passing of African National Congress [ANC] Deputy Secretary General, Comrade Jessie Duarte.

The national union sends heartfelt condolences to her family, ANC, friends and comrades in the Mass Democratic Movement (MDM) structures. We wish her family strength during this moment.

Comrade Duarte will forever be remembered for her commitment, devotion and dedication to the congress movement and the people of South Africa.

Her contribution to the struggle against the apartheid to create a non-racial, non-sexist and democratic South Africa will forever be etched in the hearts of our people.

Comrade Duarte was an internationalist who ascribed to the values of a just peaceful world and advocated for international solidarity with the oppressed people of the world.

She was also a gender activist who fought for the rights of women in the congress movement and society at large. Her passing should prompt all of us to continue the fight for women’s right and fight the scourge of patriarchy and gender inequalities. 

NEHAWU dips its banner at the passing of this exceptional leader.

Rest in Peace Comrade Jessie Duarte.

END

Issued by NEHAWU Secretariat

Zola Saphetha (General Secretary) at 082 558 5968; December Mavuso (Deputy General Secretary) at 082 558 5969; Lwazi Nkolonzi (NEHAWU National Spokesperson) at 081 558 2335