Johannesburg – African National Congress (ANC) anti-apartheid struggle stalwart Aziz Pahad has passed away at the age of 82.
Announcing his passing his family said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Aziz Goolam Hoosein Pahad, during the evening of 27 September 2023, at the age of 82”.
A patriot, freedom fighter, and servant of the people throughout his life, former Deputy Minister Aziz Pahad was a dedicated member of the ANC, a brilliant diplomat and strategist who served as a Member of Parliament and Deputy Minister for International Relations from 1994 to 2008.
He leaves behind his wife Angina, brother, children, his granddaughter, and extended family members.
Aziz Pahad is also mourned by countless friends, comrades, and colleagues, in South Africa and across the world.
“The announcement of the funeral arrangements will be done in due course,” said the terse family statement issued by Dr. Fazel Rande.
The ANC has expressed its sadness and sent condolences to the family and colleagues of the fallen freedom fighter.
“The passing of Cde Aziz Pahad is a very sad and sombre moment for our movement,” said ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula on X.
“He was a wonderful person and a great strategist!
“May his revolutionary spirit continue to inspire our efforts to rebuild and renew our movement, especially in the light of the epic battle towards renewing our movement.
“We will always cherish the sacrifices and contributions he made towards freedom in our motherland.”
Aziz Pahad was the brother of former minister in the Presidency Dr. Essop Pahad who succumbed to cancer earlier this year in July.
Essop served under President Thabo Mbeki from 1999 to 2008.
