Vuyolwethu Sangotsha

Vuyolwethu Sangotsha

Archbishop Desmond Tutu has applauded the role played by the late Black Consciousness leader Steve Biko in the struggle against apartheid.

Tutu likened the death of Biko for a good cause, to that of Jesus Christ.

"He [Biko] died for us and liberated us. Another young man who died for us was Jesus Christ," said Tutu.

He said people needed courage to attend the funeral of Biko. He recalled how he, his wife and other people were assaulted when they boarded buses to go to the funeral.

He said many people were prevented by police from attending the funeral. Tutu said Biko would have been pleased to see the changes in the country today.

"I was here during the funeral but I was slightly more of a spring chicken than now.

"Steve is smiling, looking at all of us here.

"No, no, no he's laughing to see his poster hanging in the Port Elizabeth police station where he was assaulted," said Tutu.

He described Biko as an amazing young man who was inspirational. Tutu said Biko had also helped whites to recover their humanity, since they thought they were better than others.

"We are all of equal worth; we should respect ourselves and others," he added.

Tutu was speaking on Saturday during a thanksgiving service dedicated to Biko at Victoria Grounds, King William's Town, where Biko's funeral was held 30 years ago

The event was part of the 30:30 event to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Biko's death.