Renowned anti-apartheid activist and former Minister in the Presidency, Essop Pahad, died at 84. Here’s the latest on the cause of death.
Essop Pahad dies: What’s the cause of death?
Pahad’s death was confirmed by his family, who indicated in a statement that the struggle stalwart died peacefully in his sleep.
An official cause of death notice has yet to surface.
The news of his demise has left the nation mourning the loss of a stalwart who played a significant role in the struggle against apartheid.
Pahad’s funeral arrangements will be finalized in the coming days, allowing friends, family, and admirers to bid their final farewell to a man who dedicated his life to the fight for justice and equality.
Essop Pahad obituary
Pahad served as Minister in the Presidency from 1999 to 2008 and was widely recognised as a trusted ally and right-hand man to former President Thabo Mbeki.
Pahad’s commitment to the anti-apartheid cause was unwavering, even in the face of arrest, banning, and exile. Hailing from Schweizer-Reneke in the North West, he hailed from a family of political activists who fought against apartheid.
During his time in exile, Pahad held leadership positions within the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African Communist Party (SACP).
In addition to his political achievements, Essop Pahad was a scholar, holding a PhD in history from the University of Sussex and a master’s degree from the same institution.
He channelled his intellectual prowess into the creation of The Thinker, a thought-provoking quarterly magazine, following his departure from government in 2008.
While Pahad faced criticism for his association with the Gupta family, he remained vocal against former President Jacob Zuma, aligning himself with other ANC veterans who voiced their concerns about the party’s direction.
Pahad’s willingness to speak out demonstrated his unwavering dedication to the principles of the ANC and his commitment to its longevity and renewal.
Social media reactions to Pahad’s death
President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed deep sadness over the passing of Essop Pahad, describing him as a veteran of the struggle who made immense contributions to South Africa’s journey towards democracy.
Ramaphosa highlighted Pahad’s remarkable journey, from his early involvement with the Transvaal Indian Congress to his instrumental role in shaping the country’s democratic state as a parliamentary counsellor to President Thabo Mbeki and Minister in the Presidency.
Here are more reactions to Pahad’s death:
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