On Saturday, the 30th of September 2023, the late Aziz Pahad, an anti-apartheid activist and former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, will be laid to rest at the Westpark Cemetery in Johannesburg.
Pahad, who passed away at the age of 82 at his Saxonwold home on Wednesday evening, will be buried with full Muslim rites. President Cyril Ramaphosa has granted Pahad a special official funeral category 2, which will include elements of police ceremonial honors.
The funeral proceedings will begin with the African National Congress (ANC) and State program at 9:30 a.m. Once the program concludes, the religious ceremony will take place to honor Pahad’s faith and beliefs.
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Upon the news of Pahad’s passing, President Ramaphosa paid tribute to him, highlighting his tireless work as a diplomat for the global community. Pahad dedicated his life to fighting against apartheid and advocating for justice and equality.
Aziz Pahad was born on the 21st of July 1939 in Johannesburg, South Africa. He grew up in a politically active family, with his father Ismail Pahad being a prominent member of the Transvaal Indian Congress and the South African Communist Party.
Pahad joined the anti-apartheid movement at an early age and became involved in various student and youth organizations.
He played a crucial role in the establishment of the Federation of South African Students (FEDSAW) and served as its president in the 1960s. Pahad was an influential figure in the student protests against the Bantu Education Act, which aimed to limit educational opportunities for black South Africans.
After completing his studies at the University of the Witwatersrand, Pahad became actively involved in the African National Congress (ANC) underground structures. He worked tirelessly to mobilize support for the anti-apartheid movement and played a key role in the ANC’s international relations.
Following the unbanning of the ANC in 1990, Pahad was appointed as the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs in Nelson Mandela’s government. He played a significant role in shaping South Africa’s foreign policy and was instrumental in rebuilding diplomatic relations between South Africa and other countries.
Pahad’s diplomatic skills were instrumental in facilitating negotiations and peace processes in various conflict-ridden regions, including the Great Lakes region and the Middle East. He was highly respected for his expertise and commitment to resolving complex international issues.
Throughout his career, Pahad remained dedicated to the principles of justice, equality, and human rights. He continued to be an active voice in South Africa’s political landscape, advocating for social and economic transformation.
Aziz Pahad’s passing is a great loss to South Africa and the global community. His legacy as a freedom fighter, diplomat, and advocate for justice will continue to inspire generations to come.
