As a long-TIME follower of Helen Suzman, it is with a sense of pride that I read the article by Ann Bernstein and the editorial in The Mercury (November 7).

As a young man in the early 70s, I followed closely in the media the role played by Suzman within and outside of parliament, against the National Party government and some of its worst excesses.

In 1987 I was approached by former MPs Pat Poovalingum and Mahmoud Rajab to join the Progressive Federal Party (PFP) of Suzman, Colin Eglin, Ray Swart and Frederik Van Zyl Slabbert. I gladly accepted.

This was soon after the repeal of the Improper Political Interference Act (the Act that prevented people of colour from joining a white political party).

Now, 20 years later, I continue as a proud member of that same party's successor.

And I am eternally grateful to both Rajab and Poovalingum for their political direction, which I am convinced, now more than ever before, was the right and best option.

As Helen turns 90, we can only convey our very best wishes to this grand old lady of politics and remember her contribution to democracy and human rights in our country. Long may she live.

Ronnie Veeran

Democratic Alliance Phoenix