Former PAC president and PLA veteran Dr. Motsuko Peko is described as an outstanding man who never daunted in the face of a hostile majority in parliament. Tributes continue to pour in for the 93-year-old, who passed away on Friday.
Congress maintains that Mr. Peko was a member of parliament who brought a unique perspective to the committee's work. An anti-apartheid advocate, academic, and Pan-Africanist leader, Pheko is admired from all quarters, including his political home PAC.
“He was an outstanding leader. He was an inspiration to all of us at the rank and file. The way he articulated aspects of the PAC was unparalleled and we admire his As an organization we are very sad, and we also send a message of condolence to the family, (and) all those who were close to Dr. Peko and his friends,” said Apa Phu, PAC Secretary General.
PAC remembered his service as a member of Congress.
“He was a prolific writer. He recorded many things that happened during the liberation struggle, this country and what PAC represented. In Congress he wrote about various aspects, especially land He clearly stated PAC's position on the issue and emphasized that this country's struggle is about the return of land to Africans. And we should take that as the legacy he left for all of us. “And as we get closer to the election, we find that there are many organizations outside of PAC that are vocal about land issues,” Phu added.
One of Peko's colleagues in parliament, former PAC lawmaker and African People's Congress founder Themba Godi, remembers Peko as a fearless campaigner.
“He was a hard-working man. He attended every committee meeting. He took his role seriously and passionately delivered his message without compromise, regardless of the opinion of the majority in Congress. defended the line of Africanism.
Video: Dr Motsoko Peko – “I have been working with him for some time and this loss is very serious”: Themba Godi
Parliament also joined those who expressed condolences to Peko's family.
“The Speakers of Parliament extend their condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Dr. Pheko Motsukko. Dr. Pheko was a distinguished writer and thinker who was deeply committed to the pursuit of justice and freedom and to the great majority of the people of this country. He was a freedom fighter who dedicated his life to liberation,” said parliamentary spokesperson Moloto Motapo.
The National Assembly described Peco as a versatile lawmaker.
“His life and legacy is one of dedication and resilience, and a dedication to challenging colonial narratives and uplifting African voices. He was a very versatile Congressman. He brought a unique perspective to these committees and to the work of the Congress in which he served for many years. He really strengthened the quality of the legislation and the oversight that Congress was responsible for. ” Motapo added.
Dr. Feco served as a member of parliament until 2008. His death comes a week before South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy on April 27.
Video: Dr Motsoko Peko – Unpacking the former PAC leader's role in SA's democracy: Adv Sipho Mantula
