/ MEDIA STATEMENT / The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

The African National Congress (ANC) has learned with shock the passing of Comrade Aubrey Mokoena.  This stalwart of our movement was born on the 12th of April 1948. His death comes at a time when we, as a country, are still contending with a number of challenges that require all of us to play a positive role. Comrade Aubrey would ordinarily be one of those we would rely on to confront these challenges.

He has always been courageous and fearless in confronting issues affecting our people negatively. His leadership was tested when he volunteered to lead the National Release Mandela Campaign under the banner of the United Democratic Front (UDF) during the 1980s. In fulfilling this task, he worked closely with uMama Winnie Mandela. This task put him in direct confrontation with the apartheid regime who had then banned the name of Nelson Mandela. As a result of his role, Aubrey Mokoena was a subject of harassment and detentions by the apartheid regime.

He served in the structures of the UDF in the then Southern Transvaal where he was known to be task-driven and unambiguous in his conviction. When the time came to serve the country in Parliament, he did not hesitate. When the time came to pass the baton to the next generation, he did so gracefully.

To his family and friends, we say: A gentle giant has departed to the realm of the afterlife. His legacy is our pride and forte. 

We convey our condolences to this phenomenal son of the soil. To his son, daughter and wife, we salute you for allowing Comrade Aubrey to serve the people. 

May his revolutionary soul rest in eternal peace.

Issued by The ANC