Comrade, scholar, cadre: A letter of respect to Sakhela Buhlungu

In a deeply personal and respectful tribute, Mondli Hlatshwayo, an associate professor at the University of Johannesburg, has penned a letter to Sakhela Buhlungu, celebrating his remarkable life and contributions. Hlatshwayo, writing from the perspective of a fellow academic and comrade, traces Buhlungu's journey from humble beginnings in the Eastern Cape, rooted in the struggles of the working class, to becoming a significant figure in academia and activism.

The narrative emphasizes Buhlungu's unwavering commitment to the working class, a theme that resonates deeply within the South African context. His father's experience as a mineworker, coupled with Buhlungu's own trajectory through teaching, underground activism, and higher education, paints a picture of a life forged in the crucible of struggle and intellectual pursuit. The article highlights his involvement with key organizations like the International Labour Research and Information Group, his leadership roles in the Paper, Printing, Wood and Allied Workers’ Union (Ppwawu), and his impactful tenure at Cosatu, a once formidable force in the nation's labor movement.

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Sakhela is my hero.

Hlatshwayo's account is not just a biographical sketch; it's a testament to Buhlungu's character and courage. The vivid recollection of the 2007 attack, where Buhlungu displayed extraordinary bravery defending himself and others with only a wheel spanner, underscores the qualities that have earned him respect. This incident, recounted with admiration, serves as a powerful illustration of Buhlungu's resilience and his refusal to back down, a trait that Hlatshwayo suggests is characteristic of a true 'cadre' shaped by the realities of South African struggle.

The article, published in the Mail & Guardian, reflects a distinctly South African perspective, one that values the intersection of activism, scholarship, and lived experience. It celebrates individuals who have risen from working-class backgrounds to make significant contributions to society, particularly in the fields of labor studies and social justice. The tone is one of profound respect and admiration, recognizing Buhlungu not just as an academic but as a leader and a hero whose life embodies the spirit of resistance and resilience.

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That is Sakhela — he does not retreat.