The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) mourns the passing of struggle stalwart, comrade Terry Bell. The Federation wishes his family, friends and comrades well during this painful moment of loss. They can rest assured that over his 84 years, he left South Africa richer for his contributions to the liberation struggle.
Comrade Terry’s life journey spanned many chapters of the liberation movement from his time in detention in the 1960s to 27 years in exile. His contributions towards the liberation struggle from exile, were many, with notable highlights from his time at the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom College (SOMAFCO) in Tanzania to helping found the Anti-Apartheid Movement in New Zealand and organising the Springbok Tour boycott.
Before and after his return from exile and throughout his years post-1994, he made an indelible mark on workers’ struggles in the media space, from his newspaper columns on the exploitation and hopes of the working class, to his helping found the then South African Union of Journalists.
Terry was renowned for his forthright nature, his unshakeable principles and his unwavering passion for working class struggles. Even during his final years his energy and dedication were relentless. He held the trade movement to account not to score points but because he correctly expected them to do more to advance the rights of workers and to improve the lives of the working class.
The passing of this giant of workers’ struggles and the progressive media landscape, leaves a massive void. We have seen a shrinking of the pool of labour reporters in many media outlets. We owe it to Terry to correct this newsroom travesty. The plight of workers is not an obscure niche matter to be covered occasionally but must be at the centre of media coverage. It is workers’ sweat, blood and monies that drive the economy. Terry would want to see his rich legacy continue with the next generation of journalists.
COSATU and the entire labour movement is indebted to the sacrifices of this humble giant and grateful to his family for sharing him with the nation.
Hamba kahle comrade Terry.
Issued by COSATU
Matthew Parks (COSATU Parliamentary Coordinator)
Mobile: 082 785 0687
Email: matthew@cosatu.org.za
