Pretoria - Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, today on Monday 28 December 2009, extended her heartfelt condolences to the family of anti-apartheid activist and poet, Professor Dennis Brutus.

“Once more death has robbed us of one of Africa’s greatest sons of the soil whose contribution to the struggle against apartheid and passion for social justice and human rights for all mankind has left an indelible mark in South Africa and the international community, said Minister Nkoana-Mashabane.

"Comrade Dennis Brutus understood fully well that South Africa could not occupy its rightful place in the family of nations within the global village and reach its full potential without ridding herself of the scourge of racial segregation and discrimination which the United Nations correctly defined as crime against humanity.

“In this regards, as we celebrate his lifework as a South African poet and political activist let us remember that Professor Dennis Brutus’s poetic licence was first and foremost inspired by the quest for the restoration of human dignity and achievement of a better life for all. As a result of small steps he took, notably his successful campaign against all-white South African sports, our country is today a thousand miles ahead and on the eve of hosting 2010 Fifa World Cup,” continued Minister Nkoana-Mashabane.

"On behalf of President Jacob Zuma, the government and people of South Africa we extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, May, the children and the entire Brutus family during these trying moments" concluded Minister Nkoana-Mashabane.

For further information contact the Ministerial Spokesperson, Malusi Mogale, on 082 675 0380

Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO)
Pretoria
South Africa

28 December 2009