In mid-1961, the African National Congress (ANC) leaders met in secret and took the fateful decision to create Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK), the Spear of the Nation, to wage an armed struggle against apartheid.
Mandela was put in charge. The decision had a crucial proviso — attacks would be made on property, and there would not be any killing of civilians. Pictured is Mandela with Andrew Masondo, the MK Commissar.
He joined the military wing in 1962, and in 1963 he was arrested for his involvement in MK activities and served a 13-year prison sentence. He was one of the first MK members to be imprisoned on Robben Island.
After the liberation movements were unbanned and exiles were allowed to return to the country, Masondo joined the South African Defence Force. He played an important role in the integration of military units to form the new South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
General Masondo worked closely with Madiba to ensure the SANDF workings were structured to protect civilians and uphold the defence of the country.
Masondo passed away in 2008, but will always be remembered for his instrumental role in the formation of the new military of a democratic South Africa.
“You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.” ~ Nelson Mandela
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