Former Minister of International Relations Naledi Phandor announced at the beginning of the year that she was not to return to parliament after 30 years of service as a minister in the Ministry of Higher Education and Training, Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of Basic Education as well as Ministry of Home Affairs.
Serving in government has meant a lot of time spent away from family as ministerial positions encompass a lot of responsibilities and travelling inter-provincially and abroad.
Naledi’s daughter Aisha Pandor who has had to share her mom with the country took some time to pen down an appreciative message to the former minister for her dedication to the country’s struggle detailing:
“My mom has been an ANC member and activist for all of my life. I share a birthday with the ANC, and for most of my life, I proudly spent Jan 8th with other family or friends, while my parents served the party. Since I was almost 9 years old, she has served as a member of South Africa’s democratic government. During those three decades, she has led with dedication, integrity, intelligence, wisdom, a love for her country, and a focus on principles, those held high by her religion, upbringing, country and party.”
Sharing a conversation she recently had with her mom, Aisha shared that she told her how much of an inspiration she was to her while reminding her of how much she loved her.
Touching on her mother’s next stage she added, I’m excited for this next stage in her life, which I know will be anything but idle. It will undoubtedly be focussed on creating positive impact and on continuing to champion the causes of the underserved, voiceless and powerless.”
Wishing that her working mom would slow down a bit, she added, “I’m also hoping that as by far the most hardworking person I’ve ever met, she finally takes a bit of well-deserved time for rest. Very proud and grateful daughter, and hopeful for SA. May our country and people be blessed with peace, unity, growth and prosperity.”
My mom has been an ANC member and activist for all of my life. I share a birthday with the ANC, and for most of my life, I proudly spent Jan 8th with other family or friends, while my parents served the party. Since I was almost 9 years old, she has served as a member of South… pic.twitter.com/afcbjxofZL
— Aisha R Pandor (@aishapandor) July 1, 2024
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