Lawyer, author of 30 books, theologian, academic and historian.
These are some of the accolades expressed by President Cyril Ramaphosa following the passing of liberation struggle veteran and former Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) President, Dr Ernest “Motsoko” Pheko.
Dr Pheko, aged 94, passed away last week Friday.
Ramaphosa offered his deep sadness and sent condolences to the family, comrades, and associates, both nationally and internationally, of Pheko who formerly served as the PAC Representative to the United Nations and as a Member of Parliament during his distinguished political career.
“With the passing of Motsoko Pheko, we are grateful for the extended lifetime during which this son of Lesotho became a champion of our liberation struggle and fought for the rights of dispossessed and landless people who had endured colonialism and apartheid.
“His diverse qualifications and interests made Motsoko Pheko an invaluable contributor to human development and the intellectual heritage of our nation and that of our continent whose causes and accomplishments were uppermost in his consciousness and activism,” read a statement from the presidency.
The PAC, whom Pheko led as president from 2003 until 2006, described him as a father figure.
“A giant of Pan-Africanism, prolific writer, lawyer, UN diplomat, and father figure to us all.
His unwavering commitment to liberation and African unity will forever inspire us.
Rest in power, Dr. Pheko.
Your legacy lives on,” read a statement from the PAC.
The African National Congress also paid tribute to Pheko, describing him as a veteran of the struggle against apartheid and a lifelong Pan-Africanist.
“His lifelong dedication to justice, equality, and the liberation of all South Africans leaves an indelible mark on our nation’s history.
Dr Pheko’s legacy as an esteemed and passionate advocate for African unity will continue to inspire generations to come.
His unwavering commitment to the principles of freedom and human dignity resonates deeply with the values that underpin our democracy,” said the ANC in a statement.
The Economic Freedom Front (EFF) also paid tribute to Pheko.
“We send our condolences to the Pheko family and to the PAC.
We hope that the soul of Dr. Motsoko rest in eternal peace,” said the EFF in a statement.
PAC former president Letlapa Mphahlele said Pheko was a fearless leader.
“I first met him in Maseru, Lesotho, and 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,” commented Mphahlele on his X account.
Dr Pheko was a versatile parliamentarian whose immense contributions enriched the parliamentary discourse and oversight committees in which he participated, including those on International Relations, Safety and Security, Justice and Constitutional Development, and Culture, Arts, Science, and Technology,” said parliament spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo.
Pheko was born in Lesotho in 1933 and moved to South Africa years later after the death of his parents.
He joined the PAC in 1960 and was imprisoned for his political activities.
After his release, he left the country and went into exile where he spent 30 years.
Pheko was the PAC representative to the United Nations in New York, and at the Commission on Human Rights in Geneva.
