South Africa: We Mourn the Passing of Dennis Brutus and Celebrate His Life

southern africa | the left | non-anarchist press Monday December 28, 2009 01:48 by Anti-Privatisation Forum - APF 123 Pritchard Street (cnr Mooi) 6th floor Vogas House, Johannesburg 00 27 11 333-8334

Press Release, Saturday, 26th December 2009

The Anti-Privatisation Forum and all of its 30+ community affiliates, are saddened by the passing away of comrade Dennis Vincent Brutus earlier today in Cape Town. Comrade Dennis passed away in his sleep, aged 85. At the same time, we celebrate his incredible life of literary, intellectual and activist principle and commitment to justice and equality for all.

Many other activists and movements here in South Africa and across the globe will no doubt provide ample affirmation of comrade Dennis’ amazing life journey and activism. His personal sacrifices, achievements and involvement in a wide range of social and political struggles over the better part of the 20th century and the first decade of the 21st are legendary. Comrade Dennis was always on the side of the oppressed and remained true to his principles in fighting for an anti-capitalist South Africa and world. His pen and his voice were always a thorn in the side of the rich and powerful, whether here or abroad and were constant reclaimers of our collective consciences and humanity.

In the ten years since the formation of the APF, comrade Dennis was a regular source of solidarity, encouragement and lively debate. He never shirked from joining the fight against narrow nationalism, ethnic chauvinism and gender oppression and always had a word of encouragement and affirmation for his fellow comrades. While we will miss him greatly, we celebrate his life along with all his family, friends and fellow activists. Hamba Kahle comrade Dennis!