Statement

The African National Congress Veterans League is saddened to note the death of Carey Harrison, aged 80, one of the glorious band of internationalists who assisted our liberation movement during the fierce years of struggle at great personal risk.

We send our heartfelt condolences to his wife Claire and family, Mary and Rosie, comrades and friends. Recruited in London, in 1971, British born Harrison volunteered to carry out clandestine tasks in South Africa together with his young partner, Mary Chamberlain. They were both members of the Communist Party of Great Britain (CPBG). They travelled to Cape Town by ship as newly-weds, pretending to “emigrate” to the country. 

They stayed for several weeks, and from a rented apartment surreptitiously unpacked over twenty containers of their “household goods” concealing a vast quantity of ANC and SACP literature. These were posted to lists of sympathisers and supporters, as well as the media, spreading information about the struggle, raising awareness, and guiding people as what could be done to overthrow the oppressive regime. Courage and determination were essential. Any slip up could lead to arrest, brutal interrogation and imprisonment.

They showed great fortitude in accomplishing a dangerous mission which was part of the crucial need to signal to our oppressed people that the liberation movement existed and would succeed in its historic objectives. It was this kind of internationalist support and solidarity that reinforced the internal struggle of the masses and made a crucial difference in tipping the scales of success in our favour.

Our liberation movement raises our banner to salute Carey Harrison – London Recruit and internationalist, lifelong socialist, novelist and playwright, retired professor of English, Brooklyn College, New York – for his courageous contribution to our struggle for freedom.

Hamba Kahle comrade Carey, your contribution will never be forgotten.

Sincerely

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Dr Snuki Zikalala, ANC VL President