Condolences for activist and poet, James Matthews

President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his condolences to the family and friends of poet, writer and political and cultural activist James Matthews.

Matthews, who was an Esteemed Member of the National Order of Ikamanga, passed away at the age of 95 in Cape Town over the weekend.

“James Matthews’s voice will ring in our consciousness following his departure and we will remain captivated and inspired by the rage and elegance with which he articulated the stark struggles of the oppressed.

“We will be comforted by the many works he has left for us to revisit and by our memories of his appearances at rallies, ghoembas, the frontlines of street protest and intimate circles of kindred creatives where, beret askew on his head, he would feed the souls and fighting spirit of those around him. May he now rest in peace,” President Ramaphosa said.

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde also conveyed his condolences.

“As prolific and talented as James Matthews was, he was so much more than just a writer and poet; he was integral to the anti-apartheid movement, giving a powerful voice through his writing to the oppressed. He was an important part of our province and country's artistic fabric. He will be sorely missed and his contribution rightly celebrated. 

“I extend the condolences of myself and our whole government to James’ family, friends, loved ones and all those who knew him. We celebrate him and the lives that he touched. We also know that he lives on through the many other artists he inspired,” Winde said. – SAnews.gov.za