Family of PAC founder, Sobukwe’s appeal after son’s death
THE Sobukwe family requested the funeral of liberation icon and founder of the PAC, Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe’s son Dinilesizwe, not become a platform to advance personal or political interests.
“The family is aware that a number of statements have already been made regarding Dinilesizwe’s passing, and would like to inform the public that Mangaliso Tsepo Sobukwe is the only person sanctioned to speak on behalf of the family during this time,” the family said.
They said they were humbled by, and deeply appreciated the well wishes and condolences that they received following Dinilesizwe’s passing.
Described as a humble man, deeply reflective and a critical thinker, the 63-year-old passed away on Wednesday, at the Livingstone Hospital in Port Elizabeth following a critical operation.
He was Struggle icons’ Robert and Veronica Sobukwe’s second child and had spent most of his life in exile.
His childhood was spent in Lesotho and eSwatini and his adulthood in the US where he studied at Morehouse College, Michigan State University and Howard University.
During this time, Dinilesizwe was actively involved in the liberation Struggle and became the president of the South African Students’ Organisation.
“It was in the US that he met Nomvuyo Qubeka.
“The couple married and had two sons.
“Dinilesizwe and Qubeka separated but maintained a good relationship.
“For the last 10 years, Dinilesizwe lived in Graaff-Reinet where he was instrumental in the establishment of the Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Museum and Learning Centre, a youth-orientated, living museum based in Masizakhe Township, Robert Sobukwe’s birthplace,” said the family.
Dinilesizwe will be laid to rest in Graaff-Reinet on a date still to be confirmed by the family.
He leaves his sister, Miliswa Sobukwe, his brother, Dedanizizwe Sobukwe, his two sons, Tsepo and Tsiyamo, and his nieces and nephews.
The family is aware that a number of statements have already been made Sobukwe Family