President sends condolences to Sisulu family

Thursday, October 4, 2012

Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has conveyed his condolences to the Sisulu family, following the passing on of Zwelakhe Sisulu, a freedom fighter, renown journalist and business person.

Sisulu, the son of late struggle veterans Walter and Albertina Sisulu, passed away this morning.

"We have learned with shock and sadness of the passing on of such a distinguished South African and patriot, this morning. We are truly saddened by the loss, and wish to extend our deepest condolences to the entire Sisulu family. Our thoughts are with them in this difficult time," said Zuma.

Sisulu was also a political activist and leader in his own right during the liberation struggle. As a newspaper editor of the New Nation, he was detained several times in the 1970s and 1980s for speaking out against black oppression under apartheid.

He also served as the President of the Media Workers Association of South Africa.

After the country became a democracy, Sisulu established himself as an astute businessman - where he was an active shareholder, director and Chairman of various companies. He also served as the CEO of the SABC.

"He has left an indelible mark in both the struggle for liberation and the reconstruction of our country after 1994. He leaves a legacy of self-less service, humility, patriotism and dedication to this country and its people. May his soul rest in peace," Zuma said.