South African author, poet, and activist Breyten Breytenbach, a formidable voice in the fight against apartheid, has died in Paris at the age of 85. Known for his unwavering dedication to social justice and his profound contributions to literature and the arts, Breytenbach’s legacy is celebrated both in South Africa and globally.
Breytenbach’s family announced his passing on Sunday, remembering him as a multi-talented artist whose work transcended boundaries and inspired generations.
Born in the Western Cape in 1939, Breytenbach rose to prominence as a writer and painter whose works often tackled the injustices of apartheid. He is best known for his memoir, Confessions of an Albino Terrorist, in which he details his 1975 conviction for treason and the seven years he spent in prison under South Africa’s apartheid regime.
Breytenbach was a leading literary figure in Afrikaans, a language with roots in Dutch and a contentious history as a tool of apartheid. Yet, he used it to critique the very system that sought to suppress the Black majority.
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After his release from prison, Breytenbach settled in Paris but maintained strong ties to his homeland. He joined Okhela, an ideological wing of the African National Congress (ANC), further cementing his role in the liberation struggle.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa led the tributes, honoring Breytenbach as “a humanist who channeled through his diverse art forms the militancy, tragedy, and resilience of our liberation struggle.”
Breytenbach’s influence extended far beyond his writings. His activism, coupled with his ability to capture the complexities of apartheid-era South Africa through his art, made him a symbol of resilience and a beacon of hope.
Despite spending much of his life abroad, Breytenbach’s work remained deeply connected to South Africa. His writings, paintings, and advocacy served as a bridge between his homeland and the global fight for human rights.
Breyten Breytenbach’s passing marks the end of an era, but his contributions to literature, art, and activism ensure his legacy will endure for generations to come.