Pheko was unwavering in his drive for total liberation of his people
Principles of Pan-Africanism espoused by the former PAC leader continue to be relevant today
In the tumultuous landscape of present-day neo-colonial SA, one voice stood out in unwavering courage, integrity, and commitment to the ideals of justice and freedom.
Dr Motsoko Pheko, former president of the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC), distinguished himself as a lone voice in the South African parliament, fearlessly speaking out against the criminalisation of our Struggle for freedom and the continued incarceration post-1994 of Azanian People’s Liberation Army comrades whose only crime was to dare fight against the racist apartheid regime.
His unwavering dedication to the cause of liberation serves as an enduring testament to his indomitable spirit and commitment to the principles of Pan-Africanism.
Pheko’s journey as a freedom fighter began long before the dawn of democracy in SA. As a key figure in the anti-colonialism and anti-apartheid Struggle, he experienced firsthand the brutality and oppression of the apartheid regime, witnessing the sacrifices made by countless individuals and martyrs who dared to challenge that evil and brutal system of racial segregation.
His commitment to the liberation of his people was unwavering, and he dedicated his life in pursuit of a truly liberated Azania.
Dr Pheko’s life and work were deeply intertwined with the principles of Pan-Africanism, a powerful ideology that advocates for the unity, empowerment and liberation of African peoples across the continent and the Diaspora.
As a staunch proponent of Pan-Africanism, Dr Pheko’s vision transcended national boundaries, emphasising the interconnectedness of African struggles and the importance of solidarity in the quest for freedom and justice.
His advocacy for PanAfrican unity continues to resonate today, offering valuable insights into challenges facing Africa and the enduring relevance of Pan-Africanism in shaping a more equitable and prosperous future.
At the heart of Pan-Africanism is the belief in the shared history, culture and destiny of African peoples, regardless of their geographic location or political affiliation. He understood that the liberation of Africa was intricately linked to the liberation of all African peoples, and that true freedom could only be achieved through unity and solidarity.
His work as PAC president was guided by this principle, as he sought to build a movement that transcended narrow national interests in favour of a broader vision of Pan-African unity and self-determination.
Today, the principles of PanAfricanism espoused by Dr Pheko remain as relevant as ever in the face of persistent challenges facing the African continent. From economic inequality and political instability to social injustice and environmental degradation, Africa continues to grapple with a myriad of complex issues that require a unified and coordinated response.
Pan-Africanism offers a framework for addressing these challenges by emphalighting sising the shared interests and common destiny of African peoples, and by promoting collaboration and mutual support among African nations.
By fostering a sense of solidarity and shared purpose among Africans, Pan-Africanism can help to counter external influences that seek to exploit and divide the continent for their own gain.
Dr Pheko’s unwavering commitment to Pan-African unity serves as a reminder of the importance of resisting neocolonial forces and asserting African agency in shaping the future of the continent.
In the post-1994 South African parliament, Dr Pheko found himself in a unique position – a lone voice amidst a sea of political conformity. While the ANC government sought to portray the Struggle for freedom as a thing of the past, Dr Pheko refused to let the sacrifices of those who fought against the evil apartheid regime be forgotten.
He spoke out passionately against the criminalisation of our Struggle for freedom, highmember the injustice of imprisoning those who had risked their lives to oppose the oppressive racist regime.
One of Dr Pheko’s most poignant battles as an MP was his advocacy for the release of liberation Struggle fighters who remained incarcerated for their involvement in the struggle post-1994.
These individuals, who had dedicated themselves to the fight for justice and the return of the land to its rightful owners, found themselves languishing in prison while the new government failed to acknowledge their sacrifices.
Dr Pheko’s impassioned pleas for their release were a testament to his unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of justice even in the face of overwhelming opposition. His legacy as a courageous voice for freedom and justice continues to inspire all who strive for a more just and equitable society.
His unwavering commitment to the principles of PanAfricanism, his fearless advocacy for the rights of the oppressed, and his steadfast dedication to the cause of liberation serve as a shining example of the power of one individual to effect positive change in the world.
I will always remember Dr Pheko as a formidable advocate and a key player in persuading the United Nations to overturn their decision to cease supporting South African liberation movements, when we were in the camps in exile, his unwavering commitment to the cause of our freedom was truly inspiring.
Dr Pheko’s impassioned speeches, strategic diplomacy, and tireless efforts played a pivotal role in rallying international support for the OAU Liberation Committee, which provided crucial weekly and monthly rations from OAU countries to aid the liberation movements.
His dedication and leadership were instrumental in ensuring that freedom fighters continued to receive vital assistance during their fight for liberation.
His legacy was that of being a visionary leader, historian, academic and a staunch advocate for justice and a champion of human rights; he will forever be etched in history, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.
As we remember and honour Dr Pheko, let us be reminded of the importance of speaking truth to power, of standing up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
May his legacy inspire us to continue the fight for justice and freedom and to never forget the sacrifices made by those who came before us in the pursuit of our mission to truly liberate our country.
In conclusion, Dr Pheko’s advocacy for Pan-Africanism reflects a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of African struggles and the imperative of unity in the quest for freedom and justice.
His vision continues to inspire and guide us in our efforts to build a more equitable, prosperous and united Africa; the enduring legacy of Pan-Africanism serves as a call to action for all who seek to realise the full potential of the African continent and its peoples.
As I bid my final salute to this noble son of the African soil and freedom fighter, allow me to quote the founder president of the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania Prof Mangaliso Robert Sobukwe, when he said: “As individuals we do not count, we are but the tools of history which will always find new tools.”