17 October 2007
Albert Road Recreation Ground, London
Jack Straw paid tribute to Oliver Tambo, who was a central figure in the African National Congress, at the unveiling of his memorial in North London.
[Check against delivery: this is the prepared text of the speech, and may differ from the delivered version]
Today we celebrate one man's contribution to the freedom of millions, as we go some small way to recognise the indelible contribution Oliver Tambo has made to history. And it is an honour for me to represent the Prime Minister and British Government on this important occasion.
It seems fitting that two men - Oliver Tambo and Nelson Mandela two freedom fighters, leaders and friends should be honoured here in London two months apart.
That their wonderful statues were made by the same, and now sadly late, Ian Walters will act as a deserving and lasting symbol of what together these two men have achieved for mankind.
Oliver Tambo was and remains an inspiration. He was a tireless campaigner for justice, equality, and democracy. Rights - we here in the UK take for granted - which, without the efforts of Oliver Tambo, millions in South Africa might still be denied. In the face of abuse, violence, and exile from his native land he never gave up, he never tired, and he never lost hope.
In 1994, that over 22 million South Africans were able to vote for the first time as full, free and equal citizens is testament to his dogged determination, courage and commitment.
When he stood up for the rights of his countrymen, he was standing up for the rights of us all. When he refused to accept that South Africans could not be free and full citizens, he refused to accept that every man could not live freely. His passion, vision and perseverance served as inspiration to millions across the globe during the struggle against apartheid. As it gives hope to many now.
The lasting legacy of Oliver Tambo does not rest in this memorial, as great as it is. Nor does it lie in the prosperous and free future South Africa can now enjoy. His legacy will be in the hope he has offered to many across the world who struggle against oppressive dictatorships. And the conviction that the sacrifice of a few can bring about a great change for the many.
Nowhere is his legacy of hope needed more at this present time than in Burma. In the past month, ordinary people, who like Oliver Tambo have a deep rooted belief in fairness, have stood up and asserted their desire for democracy, for justice, for equality. The people of Burma face a difficult struggle, and the international community must do all it can to bring pressure on the ruling junta to give their people the democratic freedom they demand.
Oliver Tambo was committed to a free and a fair world. We must honour his life by honouring his commitment. As his friend Nelson Mandela said at his funeral: Let all of us who live say that while we live, the ideals for which Oliver Tambo lived, sacrificed and died will not die.
Burma is but the latest place where brave people fight for those ideals. What the life of Oliver Tambo shows, in spite of overwhelming odds, is that change will come.
Thank you.