Port Elizabeth – It is with deep sadness that the Sobukwe family announces the passing of their father, uncle and brother, Mr. Dinilesizwe Sobukwe. Dinilesizwe passed away peacefully on Wednesday, 05th June 2019, at the Livingstone Hospital in Port Elizabeth following a critical operation.
Dinilesizwe was the son of liberation icon and founder of the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), Prof. Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe, and founded the Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Trust with the aim of preserving his father’s legacy, mobilizing community networks, partnerships and actions in the interests of social cohesion and pride in community.
Dinilesizwe, the second born child of Robert and Veronica Sobukwe, was born on 27th January 1956. He spent most of his life in exile. His childhood was spent in Lesotho and eSwatini. His adulthood was spent in the United States (US). Dinilesizwe studied at Moreshouse College, Michigan State University and Howard University, where he was the President of the South African Students’ Organisation (SASO). During this time, he was actively involved in the liberation struggle. It was in the United States that he met Ms. Nomvuyo Qubeka. The couple married and had two sons. Dinilesizwe and Ms. Qubeka separated, but maintained a good relationship.
For the last 10 years, Dinilesizwe lived in Graaff-Reinet where he was instrumental in the establishment of the Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Museum and Learning Centre, a youth-orientated, living museum based in Masizakhe Township, Robert Sobukwe’s birthplace.
The Sobukwe family is humbled by, and deeply appreciates the well wishes and condolences that they have received. They humbly request that Dinilesizwe’s funeral not become a platform to advance personal or political interests. The family is aware that a number of statements have already been made regarding Dinilesizwe’s passing, and would like to inform the public that Mr. Mangaliso Tsepo Sobukwe is the only person sanctioned to speak on behalf of the family during this time.
Dinilesizwe will be laid to rest in Graaff-Reinet and the family will confirm the date in due course. He leaves behind his beloved sister, Miliswa Sobukwe, his brother, Dedanizizwe Sobukwe, his two sons, Tsepo and Tsiyamo and his nieces and nephews.
He was a humble man, deeply reflective and a critical thinker and he will be sorely missed.
