1860 Monument Project Failure
The relationship between the ANC and the Indian community was forged in the trenches of Struggle, not as an act of convenience, but an act of a single people working together.
Throughout the history of the ANC movement, the role of comrades of Indian origin have been central and at leadership levels.
It was thus with heavy hearts that members of the Indian community, along with EThekwini mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, admitted their disappointment that R4,4 million earmarked for the 1860 Indentured Indian Monument Project, had to be returned to the Province because it was not used.
2020 would mark 160 years since the arrival of Indians in Durban. The City failed to use the funds for the erection of a statue celebrating this milestone, but could have used the funds to build a soup kitchen or a second-hand clothing distribution in the name of the indentured labourers. Given the funds in March 2015, the eThekwini City returned the monies citing difficulties in implementing the project. The feeling amongst the Indian community now is that their role in the Province's history has not been recognised but undermined.
We urge the City, the project team and the Premier's office to make an effort in ensuring this project is completed.
