By Dr. Zamani Saul:
Their partnership, sustained across more than fifty years, was forged in the radical politics of the 1944 ANC Youth League driven by a shared ideological imperative of “freedom in our lifetime”. That imperative was not merely rhetorical. It was the organising logic through which the ANC was re-engineered, radicalised, and transformed from a deputations-based and elitist political party into a fighting mass-based liberation movement capable of contesting, morally and politically, the structural edifice of apartheid.
The purpose of this article is to read that synergy analytically, distinguishing the differentiated yet complementary roles each leader performed, culminating in the principled transition exemplified at the 1991 National Conference. The triad had overlapping, differentiated and yet complementary roles within the leadership collectives of their generation.
Tambo’s contribution rested on organisational competence, diplomatic acumen, and a steadfast conviction to principle while in exile. He was deeply analytical and this sustained the ANC’s existence and global legitimacy during decades in exile.
Sisulu performed the indispensable function of strategic and structural cohesion. His role as a master-strategist ensured that the ANC’s internal architecture remained solid under sustained apartheid repression and was very skilful in nurturing young political talent. Sisulu was also the beloved “Big Brother” similar to Cuban revolutionary Camilo Cienfuegos, a figure who brought warmth, humanity and approachable leadership to the young activists. Camilo Cienfuegos was the emotional glue of the rebel army, unlike the stern Raúl Castro or the intensely analytical Che Guevara. Camilo was also very charismatic, deeply empathetic and fiercely protective of his men. He was loved by the fighters for his humility and sense of humour.
Mandela, the most militant, driven by intense revolutionary impulse, emerged as the symbolic face of the liberation struggle internationally and domestically. This translated the abstract claim of “freedom” into a recognisable and tangible grievance. The Release Mandela campaign punctuated the struggle against apartheid and was a powerful tool for mass mobilisation.
Importantly, the triad did not perform these roles in isolation, but within the leadership collectives they served. They astutely managed the internal ANC leadership transition and worked assiduously to build a strong and formidable organisation following the unbanning of political parties in 1990.
The 1991 National Conference, depicted in this video clip, offers an authoritative blueprint for the management of leadership transition and personal ambitions. In that year, the country stood on the cusp of democratic breakthrough, and the political logic was straightforward: whoever emerged as President of the ANC at the 1991 National Conference was, in all likelihood, going to become the founding President of the democratic South Africa.
When Tambo decided not to contest the presidency in 1991, he was well aware of the attractive prospect of becoming the founding president of the new South Africa. However, he did not deploy his personal ambitions and interests. Instead, he acted driven by the revolutionary principle to do “first, what is in the best interest of the country and what is in the best interest of the ANC”. The revolutionary leaders of that generation could subordinate personal ambitions to the historic mission of freedom. From this posture, the contemporary leaders and members can derive valuable lessons.
This generation of revolutionary leaders ignited change in politics, from passive resistance to revolutionary struggles. They were not merely influential figures; they inspired the oppressed masses of South Africa into action, driven by the undying dream of a democratic and just society. They were selfless and incorruptible torchbearers with the ability to imagine a better future and shared that imagination with the oppressed.
Another critical quality of revolutionary leaders displayed by the triad and its generation was resilience. They kept going despite facing obstacles and challenges. We have to learn from this generation that true leaders do not give up easily. They learn from failures, adapt to new circumstances, and continue to push for change, even when the odds are against them. The persistence by the triad and their generation inspired the oppressed masses in South Africa that change is possible, despite the difficulties they may encounter.
Empathy is another critical attribute of this leadership triad and its generation. Empathy allowed this generation of leaders to understand and connect with the experiences of others, particularly the downtrodden and vulnerable masses. We should derive a lesson from that generation: it was not detached from the masses. They listened to the voices of marginalised communities and were better equipped to advocate for meaningful change. This emotional understanding fosters trust and support in communities, as people feel heard and valued. Leaders who exhibit empathy can create a strong sense of community and solidarity, which is essential for any revolutionary movement. This speaks to the 1965 philosophical reflection of Che Guevara that “the true revolutionary is guided by a great feeling of love” for the poor and the downtrodden.
Strategic thinking rounds out the essential qualities of this leadership triad. The triad and its generation had an ability to create realistic plans and make smart decisions that align with the historic mission of the ANC. They could assess risks, identify opportunities, and think several steps ahead. This skill is vital for navigating complex social and political landscapes. These leaders thought strategically and could mobilise resources, build coalitions and effectively drive the ANC towards success under difficult circumstances.
As we can see from the leadership triad, true revolutionary leaders combine incorruptibility, resilience, empathy and strategic thinking into their approach to leadership. These qualities, taken together, create a powerful force for transformative social and political change. They inspire others to act; they help overcome challenges; they foster connections and they ensure effective means of achieving strategic goals. It is through the combined impact of these attributes that revolutionary leaders can mobilise people and bring about the necessary changes.
The historical record of this triad and the generation from which they emerged suggests that revolutionary leadership is sustained not by the possession of any single virtue but by the disciplined integration of all four.
Dr. Zamani Saul is the Northern Cape ANC Provincial Chairperson – @NewsSA_Online
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