President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to Louise Asmal, the wife of former education minister Kader Asmal, who passed away this week.
In a heartfelt tribute, President Ramaphosa mourned the passing of Louise, an esteemed human rights advocate.
Louise reached the end of a courageous battle with illness this past weekend, sparking numerous tributes from across South Africa and beyond.
Her death resonates deeply with those who remember her steadfast dedication to the fight against apartheid.
Ramaphosa expressed his profound sadness upon learning of Louise’s passing, stating: “I have learned with great sadness of the passing of Louise Asmal, a leader of the international campaign against apartheid and spouse of our late former minister of higher education Prof Kader Asmal.”
The president’s words highlighted not only Louise’s legacy but also the personal connection her family had with the injustices of apartheid, which severed their ability to live in South Africa as a couple due to the laws outlawing mixed marriages.
As the nation commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Irish Anti-Apartheid Movement, which the Asmals co-founded, the loss of Louise takes on an even more poignant significance.
Ramaphosa noted: “We will celebrate Louise as a heroine and remain grateful for the imposing influence she exercised with unwavering activism.”
His statement serves as a powerful reminder of her relentless efforts to mobilise communities in Ireland and the UK against the oppressive regime of apartheid.
Leading the chorus of condolences, Dr Mamphela Ramphele, chairperson of the Archbishop Desmond Tutu IP Trust, also expressed her sorrow, recalling how Louise’s dedication to activism began alongside her husband Kader, a prominent figure in both British and Irish anti-apartheid movements.
The Star reported that Ramphele described the Asmal family's nostalgic return to South Africa in the 1990s, recognising the powerful bond of friendship that had developed amid their shared Struggle for justice.
Louise’s extensive work as a researcher and administrator was instrumental in bringing attention to systemic oppression, fostering significant change in South African civil society. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of activists, reinforcing the importance of resilience in the ongoing fight for equality and justice.
“As South Africa reflects on Louise’s life and contributions, her memory will undoubtedly endure, serving as a beacon of hope and an embodiment of unwavering commitment to justice. The Asmal family, including their two sons Adam and Rafiq, are in the thoughts and prayers of many as they navigate this difficult time,” Ramphele said.
The Star