Tuesday, 19 May 2026: The South African Communist Party (SACP) conveys its messages of heartfelt condolences to the family of former North West Province premier, Comrade Kaobitsa Abel “Bushy” Maape. The SACP also sends its message of condolences to the liberation movement and the people of South Africa for the loss.
Comrade Bushy joined the struggle against the apartheid system at a very young age and joined the joint SACP-ANC military wing, uMkhonto we Sizwe. In 1986, the apartheid regime arrested him for his political activities and jailed him on the notorious Robben Island. Understanding that the struggle continued even behind prison walls, Comrade Bushy used the time to further his studies. While in prison, he studied and achieved degrees in psychology and economics at the University of South Africa. He later earned an honours degree in development studies and economics at the University of the Western Cape.
Following his release from prison, he continued contributing to the struggle by focusing, among other aspects, on the political education of young activists and also served in various capacities before his tenure as North West premier from 2021 to 2024. Known for his wholehearted dedication to the liberation of the people, as well as his humility, Comrade Bushy’s legacy will continue to inspire the people of South Africa to continue deepening the national democratic revolution.
In tribute to Comrade Kaobitsa Abel “Bushy” Maape, the SACP calls upon the working class to unite and advance the national democratic revolution towards total implementation of the Freedom Charter and social emancipation.
ISSUED BY THE SOUTH AFRICAN COMMUNIST PARTY,
FOUNDED IN 1921 AS THE COMMUNIST PARTY OF SOUTH AFRICA
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