Gentle giant leaves an unforgettable legacy
A BAOBAB tree has fallen and its reverberation has caused a political tremor not only in our country but also across the continent and the world.
From humble beginnings growing up on the dusty streets of Joburg, Professor Keorapetse “Bra Willie” Kgositsile grew to become a truly gentle political giant, an accomplished scholar, a highly decorated poet and cultural worker and an uncompromising internationalist.
A versatile revolutionary, he perfected the art of relating theory with practice. Even though he was an academic he also understood the importance and correctness of the armed Struggle and became a fearless combatant of Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK). Talking about his involvement in the Struggle reminds one of Bra Willie’s poem, the Red Song: “If I could sing... My opening lines would be: Need I remind anyone That the armed Struggle Is an act of love?” He cherished education as he believed that it was one of the potent tools available to the oppressed to lift themselves out of their subjugation and oppression.
It is therefore not surprising he pursued education to become one of the most accomplished scholars who taught in universities in Botswana, Kenya, Zambia and the US.
He worked in academia alongside Struggle veterans such as Ruth First,hence it is a befitting tribute that at the time of his passing, he was leading efforts to establish the Ruth First Policy Institute – a think tank for the ANC in Gauteng that would develop policy proposals to bring the dream of a better life for all closer.
Those who did not know Bra Willie would easily be misled by his tiny physical stature until a conversation ensued. Armed with an incisive mind and witty humour, he would easily disarm friends and foes alike with his exceptional academic and political intellect.
Always humble and one never to resort to insults and intimidation, Bra Willie would utilise his intellectual acumen to persuade others and win them over to the cause for freedom and democracy.
Being an intellectual par excellence, he was a marvel to watch when he patiently explained his views and persuasively presented a case for liberation of the oppressed and downtrodden.
His contribution to the development of our country did not end with the attainment of liberation.
He was a dedicated public servant who utilised his knowledge and experience as a cultural worker to develop policies that positioned the creative industries at the cutting edge of economic development.
The South African Poet Laureate Prize and being honoured with the National Order of Ikhamanga for his contribution to the field of literature bears testimony to his unflinching commitment and selfless work as a cultural activist.
Working with a political heavyweight and intellectual giant of such calibre was an unforgettable experience and humbling privilege. It was indeed an honour to have Bra Willie as an adviser while serving as the Minister of Arts and Culture.
Bra Willie worked hard notwithstanding his age, and his wealth of experience and natural wisdom showed through and impacted the work of that department. It is no exaggeration that the Mzansi Golden Economy – a roadmap to position the creative industries at the centre of inclusive growth is a product of his efforts and wisdom.
Always one to put a smile one other people’s faces through his wittiness and humour, he touched the lives of many of us in an unforgettable way.
I have lost a friend, a father and a counsellor who was always ready to not only advice but also lead from the front. The ANC has lost a fearless combatant and our country has lost a selfless servant.
In Bra Willie’s memory, we need to intensify efforts to change our people’s lives for the better.
Fare thee well our accomplished poet, principled political and cultural activist and indefatigable revolutionary!
Robala ka kagiso Morolong! Ke namane ya tholo!
Mashatile is chairperson of ANC Gauteng and national ANC treasurer-general