Kaizer Chiefs chairman Kaizer Motaung has dedicated Freedom Day to all the healthcare and essential services, who continue to provide their services during the nationwide lockdown.

Freedom Day is commemorated in South Africa as a holiday following the first post-apartheid elections held on this day in 1994.

‘Freedom Day is one of the key days in South Africa’s history,’ Motaung told his club’s official website. ‘This day was arrived at through hardship. To attain it in the peaceful manner we did was truly remarkable. One will recall waking up on the day to vote for the first time in the history of the country. It feels like yesterday because it is unforgettable.’

‘Of course, this time it is a bitter-sweet celebration because the day happens during one of the most challenging times that we have seen in the world,’ laments the chairman. ‘We are confronted by the Covid-19 pandemic that is claiming lives on a daily basis and put all countries on alert. Therefore, the celebrations will be muted due to the regulations imposed for people by the South African government to be safe.

He reiterated: ‘We cannot gather in celebrations as usual. We are confined to commemorate the day differently. I wish to share the message of love and peace with the Amakhosi family. I urge Amakhosi to remember and honour this day by respecting the government regulations that are aimed at preventing the spread of the coronavirus.

‘This day must serve as an inspiration to all South Africans as we celebrate our 26th year since this momentous day happened. The struggle against the apartheid regime was a demonstration of our resilience as a nation. Through unity we were able to emerge victoriously from difficult times. We must use the same dedication and discipline to fight against the spreading of the virus.’

The club’s chairman dedicated this day to all the healthcare workers and all other essential service providers, who continue to work during the nationwide lockdown.

‘I wish to pledge my solidarity with the healthcare and other essential service providers,’ said the chairman before adding, ‘the world is indebted to you and the service that you are rendering during this testing time. Remain resolute in your profession and calling and have faith that we will soon be out of this situation. Stay strong.’