AZAPO MOURNS THE PASSING OF FORMER SECRETARY GENERAL CDE SAMMY TLOUBATLA

The Azanian People’s Organisation (AZAPO) has learned with profound sadness of the passing of its founding Secretary General, Cde Sammy Tloubatla, who departed on 30 March 2026.

Following this tragic loss, AZAPO leadership, led by President Nelvis Qekema and Secretary General Mbulelo Ketye, visited the Tloubatla family to offer support and solidarity during this difficult time.

Cde Tloubatla was a disciplined cadre of the Black Consciousness Movement who dedicated his life to the total liberation of Black people from psychological, physical, and economic oppression. As the inaugural Secretary General of AZAPO, he played a pivotal role in laying the organisational and ideological foundations of the movement.

His tenure was characterised by unwavering commitment to organisational discipline, principled self-reliance, and the pursuit of a socialist Azania. A fearless orator, a sharp administrator, and a lawyer by profession, Cde Tloubatla served the organisation during a critical period, ensuring that AZAPO remained a resolute vanguard of Black Consciousness.

In his passing, we have lost not only a leader, but a repository of revolutionary knowledge, experience, and unwavering patriotism.

AZAPO extends its deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the Tloubatla family. We share in their grief and honour the life of a committed servant of the people.

In tribute to his legacy, AZAPO calls upon all its Structures and Black people in general to rededicate themselves to the struggle for land reconquest, self-determination, and the restoration of the dignity of Black people.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, 6 April 2026 in Soweto, followed by a funeral service on Wednesday, 8 April 2026 in Spruitview. Details of the actual venues will be communicated in due course.

Rest in Power, Cde Secretary General.

Your contribution to the struggle for a free Azania shall never be forgotten.