Issued by the YCL Office of the National Secretary
7 September 2004
The YCL observes with shock and mourns the passing away of Beyers Naude, popularly known as Oom Bey. At a time when it was unpopular for white South Africans, especially those belonging to the Apartheid supporting Dutch Reformed Church, to speak out against Apartheid, Oom Bey did so.
He was one of the few white South Africans opposed to Apartheid, and one of the fewer who spoke out against it. This led to Oom Bey being labelled an outcast, a renegade and suffered from a series of abuse by the church and the Apartheid system.
It is through the efforts, actions and commitment of Oom Bey and many other leaders who took Apartheid down to where it belongs, in history.
It is the light rays of hope that Oom Bey continued to represent that will guide South Africans to true liberation.
The YCL passes its condolences to the family, friends and the whole South African nation in this time of grief. Let the history of this country show its respect to this Anti-Apartheid churchman.
Contact: Buti Manamela 082 567 3557.