The recent passing of Dr. Essop Goolam Pahad was a great loss for the South African community. He had been an exceptional leader and advocate for the nation’s liberation. At his funeral, Acting President Paul Mashatile delivered a moving eulogy, emphasizing Pahad’s profound impact on South African society. This article explores the life and contributions of Essop Pahad.
Early Life and Political Activism
Born into a politically-active family, Essop Pahad was deeply involved in the struggle for freedom and justice from a young age. His passion for the cause was evident when he participated in the 1956 Treason Trial as a youth, protesting outside the court with placards and posters demanding “Hands off our leaders!”.
Commitment to the Struggle
Throughout his life, Pahad remained committed to the cause of liberation. Under the mentorship of renowned leaders such as Oliver Tambo, Yusuf Dadoo, and Joe Slovo, he developed his political acumen. As an active member of the Congress Youth Movement, he fought against the apartheid regime, leading to his banishment and exile in 1964.
During his years in exile, Pahad continued to contribute significantly to the struggle. He represented the South African Communist Party (SACP) on the editorial council for the World Marxist Review from 1975 to 1985. This work helped advance the international pillar of the fight for liberation.
Intellectual Pursuits and Political Consciousness
Pahad’s thirst for knowledge and intellectual pursuits were instrumental in shaping his political consciousness. During his exile, he engaged in discussions, debates, and learning experiences with comrades and representatives of Communist parties from around the world. These experiences broadened his perspective and deepened his understanding of the struggle.
Transition to Democracy
Upon his return to South Africa, Essop Pahad played an essential role in the country’s transition to democracy. He was among the ANC cadres deployed into the first democratic parliament in 1994. His contributions provided hope for the future of a democratic South Africa.
Legacy of Service
After his tenure in public service, Pahad established “The Thinker,” a quarterly journal for discussion that contributed to the diversity of opinion in South Africa’s media and public discourse spaces. This effort added yet another noteworthy accomplishment to his legacy of service to society.
Inspiration for Future Generations
Essop Goolam Pahad’s life serves as an inspiration and challenge to the current generation. His unwavering commitment to the pursuit of justice and democracy remains an example to follow. As the nation mourns the loss of this outstanding leader, it is imperative to honor his memory by carrying forward the torch of freedom and ensuring that South Africa’s democratisation project never loses its way.
In the words of Nikolai Ostrovsky, “Man’s dearest possession is life. It is given to him but once, and he must live it so as to feel no torturing regrets for wasted years, never know the burning shame of a mean and petty past; so live that, dying, he might say: all my life, all my strength were given to the finest cause in all the world the fight for the Liberation of Mankind.”
Essop Goolam Pahad’s life and contributions will forever remain etched in the annals of South African history. They serve as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made for the nation’s freedom and democracy. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps and strive for a better, more just society for all.
