An inspiring legacy
IT IS WITH very deep regret and sadness that the Executive Committee of the Kurdish Human Rights Action Group (KHRAG) heard about the passing of our chairperson, Judge Essa Moosa, who died on the morning of February 26.
He will be sorely missed by all who are involved with the struggle for the liberation of the Kurdish people in Turkey and throughout the world. A day before his passing, he intimated his two concerns: his concern for the plight of the poor in South Africa and the struggle of the Kurdish people, and for the end to the present hostilities and a negotiated settlement with Turkey. Judge Moosa asked that the work of the KHRAG continue.
Judge Moosa was a founding member of KHRAG and as its chairperson did not for one day rest without having done something for the Kurdish people. His unselfish commitment and determination for a settlement of the so-called Kurdish question did not only inspire all who became involved in the activities of KHRAG, but was recognised internationally by the European Union Turkey Civic Commission and the Kurdish National Congress.
He will be remembered for the highly successful signature campaign that was launched calling for the release of Abdullah Ocalan from the prison on Imrali Island in Turkey. Essa Moosa had made numerous attempts to meet with Mr Abdullah Ocalan, and every time he was refused permission for such a visit by the Turkish authorities.
He lobbied the South African government on behalf of Kurdish people and, at the time of his death, he put in motion a process in which he pleaded for the recognition by the South African government of the Kurdish struggle for liberation.
KHRAG will continue with the work started and energised by our chairperson and, in tribute to him, the group will pursue all the initiatives started by him with renewed vigour and determination. We salute our leader and pledge to pick up the mantel left behind by a leader, comrade, friend and father second to none. Forward we shall march until the liberation of our Kurdish friends are realised.