Remembering the Multitalented Statesman Who Expressed Himself Passionately With His Words

 Aphile Didie

In A Somber Turn Of Events, South Africa mourns the loss of a revered freedom fighter and political activist, Comrade Mbulelo Musi. As we bid farewell to this influential figure who was instrumental in the fight against injustice in South Africa it is crucial to reflect on his remarkable legacy, one that transcended political realms. Comrade Musi was mostly known for being a freedom fighter but what many South Africans don’t know is that this esteemed statesman was not only a visionary leader but a creative genius too. He was gifted with various talents but he had a profound love for poetry, the written word.

Throughout his triumphant career, the late politician’s interest in the artistic realm was overshadowed by his political presence but behind closed doors and beyond the political arena, he reveled in a world of rhythm and rhymes, where his passion for poetry soared. His passion for writing came as a result of his activism over the years. His colleagues described him as a “disciplined and fearless freedom fighter with immeasurable political and ideological clarity” and this was reflected in his talent as writing became a tool that he used to express his views and feelings regarding political matters as he often penned personal opinion pieces on political matters. Writing was an outlet in which he expressed himself creatively as he found solace in the enchanting power of written expression.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of his career and despite the demands of his position the beloved statesman never shied away from sharing his literary gifts with the world, he was a published writer too. In 2021, he wrote a self-titled piece in commemoration of 40 years of the Matola raid. “Mbulelo Musi, A Survivor” was published in the Sunday times towards the end of 2021. Readers enjoyed Comrade Musi’s ability to bridge the gap between political discourse and artistic contemplation, enlightening readers with insight born from a mind both critical and creative. His writing also demonstrated to readers that he had a profound personal understanding of the struggle and this was highlighted through his ability to provoke empathy and human emotion with his words.

The late politician who was revered for his eloquence and charisma had another hidden talent that only a few knew about. He was not only a skilled orator but a gifted poet. Poetry was an additional outlet for his thoughts and emotions allowing him to connect deeply with others.

One of the most memorable moments in his poetic journey was his final poetry recital at the Cuito Cuanavale Commemoration celebration at Freedom Park. This was Comrade Musi’s last public poetry recital which in hindsight, makes it even more special.

As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we celebrate not only his political strides but also his gift for crafting words that touched souls. His legacy reminds us that creativity knows no bounds and can emerge from unexpected places.