By Zuko Komisa

- The resting place of anti-apartheid leader Robert Sobukwe has been desecrated in his hometown.
- This marks the second time this year that the memorial site has suffered targeted vandalism.
- The recurring acts of destruction undermine a vital monument dedicated to one of South Africa’s most prominent liberation icons.
The gravesite of Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe, the founding president of the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC) has once again been targeted by vandals in his hometown of Robert Sobukwe Town (formerly Graaff-Reinet), Eastern Cape.
This latest act of destruction marks the second occurrence this year alone, following an earlier incident in March.
The desecration of such a historical monument is deeply tragic, dishonouring the memory of a pivotal figure who endured years of solitary confinement on Robben Island and harsh state restriction for his leadership in the anti-apartheid struggle.
In a official statement following the repeated targeting of the monument, the PAC condemned the desecration, stating:
“The PAC condemns the repeated desecration of the graves of our founding President, Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe, Mama Veronica Sobukwe and Dinilesizwe Sobukwe. This barbaric act seeks to undermine peace and divide communities. We demand swift police action and lasting protection of the gravesite.”
Police investigations into the incident remain ongoing.
READ NEXT: The nation mourns the passing of Mama Zondela Veronica Sobukwe