Fifth Global Convention of Solidarity with Palestine kicks off
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The Fifth Global Convention of Solidarity with Palestine is underway in Johannesburg, South Africa, in commemoration of freedom fighter Nelson Mandela.
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South Africans protest against Israeli occupation's aggression on Gaza, outside the parliament in Cape Town, South Africa, May 12, 2021. (AP)
The 5th Global Convention of Solidarity with Palestine kicked off today in Johannesburg, South Africa, marking the tenth anniversary of Nelson Mandela's passing.
Titled "Nelson Mandela and Palestine: Confronting Racism till Liberation," the event is organized by the Global Campaign to Return to Palestine, in collaboration with Mandela's family, in remembrance of the iconic leader who became South Africa's first democratically elected president after his struggle to bring an end to apartheid.
Running from December 3 to 5, the convention has attracted over 150 international delegates from 72 countries, including representatives from the Palestinian Resistance Movement, Hamas.
Among the key objectives is to provide crucial briefings on the ongoing Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip to political parties, civil society groups, and members of the Palestine solidarity movement.
In a press statement, Africa4Palestine highlighted the significance of the convention, quoting Mandela, who once asserted, "We know very well that our freedom will not be complete until Palestine is liberated."
The organizers emphasized that the downfall of South Africa's apartheid regime was a pivotal achievement for liberation movements globally, particularly in the Palestinian struggle.
The convention will conclude with a symbolic march to the Union Buildings, the official seat of the South African government, scheduled for Tuesday. This event aims to underscore the enduring solidarity between South Africa and Palestine, drawing parallels between the struggles for freedom and justice in both regions.
South African-Palestinian solidarity
The symbolism of the convention is that it is taking place this year in Johannesburg, the capital of South Africa, a country that for decades it suffered from colonialism and racism, as the Palestinians are, Al Mayadeen's correspondent reported.
South Africa, under the leadership of historic revolutionary Nelson Mandela, managed to uproot racism and the Apartheid regime that for years tormented the people of South Africa, our correspondent added.
The opening speech at the conference was delivered by Mandela Mandela, the grandson of freedom fighter Nelson Mandela.
In his address, he extensively discussed the current plight of Palestinians, emphasizing the ongoing genocide perpetrated by the Israeli occupation forces. Mandela continuously called for the liberation of all Palestinian lands and the upheaval of the occupation.
In his speech, he expressed hope that Palestine would very soon be liberated from colonization and Israeli occupation, as well as from the apartheid regime.
Moreover, he credited the imminent liberation to the steadfast struggle and resistance of the Palestinian people.
The conference will witness the participation of renowned global figures known for their revolutionary stances on just and legitimate causes worldwide, with a particular emphasis on the Palestinian cause.
Among the attendees are influential activists, content creators, and other social media celebrities, all recognized for their unwavering support of the Palestinian cause and position of a substantial fan base across the Arab world.
Opposition to the occupation
The primary objective of the 5th International Solidarity Forum with Palestine is to convey a message of support and solidarity with the struggles of the Palestinian people in reclaiming their rights, notably the right of return.
The day is highly significant because not only does it commemorate the passing of the great revolutionary figure, but also the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, which is observed on November 29, 2023.
A National Day of Action took place in solidarity with Palestine in late October. During the event, protesters continued to urge the South African government to close the Israeli Embassy in South Africa and to implement legislation for a boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) campaign against "Israel".
The Occupy Sea Point demonstration, which was hosted by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC), received support from political parties, trade unions, and civil organizations.
Closure of the Israeli embassy
The South African parliament voted in favor of closing the Israeli embassy on November 21, expelling the Israeli ambassador, and cutting diplomatic ties with the Israeli occupation in rejection of the brutal war waged by the occupation on Gaza.
President Cyril Ramaphosa's government will decide on whether to implement it or not.
The motion was passed with 248 votes in favor and 91 against. The motion, which was introduced by the leftwing opposition party Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), was backed by the ruling African National Congress and opposed by members of the centrist-party, white-majority Democratic Alliance (DA), which is considered pro-Israeli.
