THE late struggle stalwart, Ebrahim Ebrahim has been laid to rest in Johannesburg, Gauteng.
The former diplomat, fondly known as ‘Ebie’ served as the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation between 2009 and 2014.
Ebrahim passed away after fighting a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 84.
The former Robben Island prisoner, who later became the deputy minister of International Relations, served on many structures of the ANC and was a member of the NEC for 26 years.
Ebrahim joined the liberation movement as a youth activist in 1952.
President Cyril Ramaphosa commended Ebrahim – who spent many years on Robben Island with former President Nelson Mandela – for his acts of service towards freedom from Apartheid.
“His bravery, resilience and commitment to peace and security around the world has made our country, our continent and the world a better place. He now deserves to rest in peace while we appreciate and build on his indelible legacy,” he said in a statement.
“I am saddened by the passing of a distinguished comrade and counsellor who devoted his life to the liberation of our country and the resolution of conflicts around the world. He was indeed ‘a gentle revolutionary’, whose personal modesty belied his courageous conviction and firm and principled outlook on life and global affairs.”
Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO)’s minister Pandor also expressed heartfelt condolences to the Ebrahim family, friends and colleagues.
“Dr Ebrahim served as the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation and played a significant part in cementing our country’s position on the international stage,” she said on Tuesday.
“He was a renowned and respected freedom fighter, a national combatant and truly committed to his country, his organisation and his family.”
According to the Minister, she had hoped to visit him soon as he informed her about his failing health.
“I’m truly saddened,” the Minister added
