The South African Communist Party says that in memory of veteran government spokesman Ronnie Mamoepa it plans to strengthen its efforts to forge the broadest possible patriotic front in defence of the country’s constitution and democracy.

In a statement‚ the SACP said it was “profoundly saddened” by the death of Mamoepa‚ whom it described as “a stalwart of our struggle for liberation‚ a seasoned communicator of our movement and government”.  

“Mamoepa served five years of his youth in incarceration at the notorious Robben Island prison in Cape Town.

“After our democratic breakthrough in 1994‚ Cde Ronnie joined our government and served the people with distinction as a communications practitioner. His extensive experience included various communications roles‚ notably the Presidency‚ the then Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Home Affairs‚ as well as the ANC‚” the SACP said.

 It added: “In memory of Cde Ronnie‚ the SACP will strengthen its efforts to forge the broadest possible patriotic front in defence of our country’s constitution and deepening of our democracy!”