The ANC is remembering their comrade Aziz Goolam Hoosein Pahad as a brilliant diplomat, and strategist.

The party says it dips its revolutionary banner following his passing on Wednesday evening at the age of 82.

Pahad who served in the position of Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for 14 years had played an important role in the secret talks that paved the way for South Africa’s transition from an apartheid entity to a democratic state. Pahad resigned as deputy minister in protest over the ANC’s recall of Thabo Mbeki’s as head of state.

Pahad has been described as a patriot, freedom fighter, and a person who served the people throughout his life.

Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed Pahad for his work, even while in exile to undermine the Apartheid regime.

President Ramaphosa says that Pahad played several roles, including as a member of the ANC’s Revolutionary Council.

Az brother, Essop Pahad, passed away in July this year.

President Ramaphosa has thanked them, and their families for their contributions to the country’s liberation.