Condolence messages are flooding social media platforms following the announcement of the passing away of renowned anti-apartheid activist and former Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) leader, Motsoko Pheko.
Pheko died on Friday at the age of 93.
A statement released on social media confirmed his death.
“The Pheko family wishes to inform you of the passing of our beloved father Dr Motsoko Pheko. At the age of 93 we are grateful to God for the time spent with him; the love he so selflessly imparted; including his immense knowledge as a renowned Africanist, lawyer, author, historian, theologian, academic and politician.
Dear MaAfrika, friends, family & comrades,
On behalf of the Pheko family, I wish to share the Official Press Statement regarding the passing of Dr Motsoko Pheko- our beloved father & grandfather.
IzweLethu.@SABCNews @MyPAConline @LetlapaMphahlel @NewsroomAfrica1 @SAfmRadio pic.twitter.com/IHSrbwXpo5
— Zandi Nehanda Radebe (@NehandaRadebe) April 20, 2024
“We hope you can stand in solidarity with us at this time as the family seeks peace and quiet to reflect on this momentous occasion. The family is truly grateful for the love and support we are receiving and have over the years.”
Pheko was celebrated for his multifaceted contributions as a lawyer, historian, theologian, author, and politician.
Pheko’s legacy includes a decade-long tenure as a PAC Member of Parliament, during which he contributed to various portfolio committees.
His family has requested privacy during this time of reflection and gratitude for the outpouring of support.
Take a look at some of the condolence messages on social media:
Rest in Peace to PAC former leader, Dr Motsoko Pheko 🕊️🕊️
His famous quote: “Colonialists stole not only the lands of African people and renamed them. They also stole their knowledge so that they would know nothing about themselves.” pic.twitter.com/x4kL0aIILO
— TK_Nala (@NalaThokozane) April 20, 2024
Ntate Motsoko Pheko is no more. I first met him in Maseru, Lesotho. I’m yet to meet a person who is so passionate about the land and justice. It was his struggle for justice that made him a hero among political prisoners since early 60s. He was truthful and fearless to the end. pic.twitter.com/CBCpBuB8Mb
— Letlapa Mphahlele (@LetlapaMphahlel) April 20, 2024
ACT mourns the passing of Dr. Motsoko Pheko. pic.twitter.com/IbSgPW2Ogj
— Presidium – The RET Putinist (@Presidium_P) April 20, 2024
Media statement: it is with heavy hearts that we received the news of passing of Dr. Motsoko Pheko, former President of the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC). pic.twitter.com/MFhywNunMB
— Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC) (@MyPAConline) April 20, 2024
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
