By Akani Nkuna
President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to the late ANC veteran and anti-apartheid activist, Dr. Simon Tshenuwani Farisani, describing him as a principled leader who embodied conviction, purpose and vision.
Ramaphosa delivered the eulogy at Farisani’s funeral, which took place at the University of Venda in Thohoyandou, Limpopo, on Saturday.
“We have lost an extraordinary man, who led an extraordinary life,” said Ramaphosa.
Farisani passed away on Thursday at the age of 76 after battling an undisclosed illness.
Ramaphosa stressed Farisani’s commendable commitment to renewing the ANC and upholding its core values.
He urged South Africans to honor Farisani not only in words but also through actions that reflect his enduring legacy and ideals.
“Farisani was not just a leader in tittle, but a beacon of hope, integrity and justice and he adhered to his principles, and we honour him for that, and we thank him for having been such a great gift to all of us,” Ramaphosa said.
Ramaphosa Farisani could have chosen a quiet life after his release from detention and subsequent exile in the United States.
Instead, he commended Farisani for remaining steadfast in his activism.
Farisani campaigned relentlessly against apartheid on the international stage and courageously opposed the declaration of Venda as an independent homeland—despite facing opposition from church leaders within his own circles.
“His activism continued into the democratic era. He was determined to be part of the struggle to overcome the injustice and inequality bred by apartheid,” Ramaphosa added.
Farisani was a founding member of the Black People’s Convention (BPC), serving as its president from 1973 to 1975.
He worked alongside Steve Biko and other key figures in the Black Consciousness Movement.
In the 1970s, he co-founded the Black Evangelist Youth Organization with Cyril Ramaphosa, Tshifhiwa Muofhe, and Lawrence Khorombi, an initiative that later evolved into BECO and subsequently ECHO.
Following the end of apartheid, Farisani continued his dedication to justice and public service through a distinguished political career.
He held several prominent roles, including Member of Parliament, ANC Provincial Treasurer in Limpopo, Speaker of the Limpopo Legislature, and MEC, where he played a vital role in shaping provincial governance.
Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba urged South Africans to celebrate the remarkable life of Farisani and the many lives he touched, including her own.
She said Farisani’s legacy would continue to echo in the hearts of many, calling on all to uphold his enduring values of compassion, courage, and commitment to justice.
“He stood tall as an anti-corruption ambassador, a moral compass in a society often marred by dishonesty. His integrity and relentless pursuit of accountability inspired many to rise against the pernicious effects of corruption,” Ramathuba added.
She paid tribute to Farisani, describing him as a tireless advocate for justice, a defender of the oppressed, and a voice for those who could not speak for themselves.
“Farisani was more than a leader—he was the soul of the community, carrying the hopes and dreams of many whose lives he touched in meaningful and lasting ways,” she said.
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