NaLHISA Mourns The Death Of SA Ambassador Billy Masetlha

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JOHANNESBURG: The former head of the national intelligence agency died earlier on Sunday after a lengthy illness.

The National Liberation Heritage Institute of South Africa (NaLHISA) is saddened by the passing of one of its founding Trustees, Ambassador Billy Masetlha. Ambassador Masetlha played a pivotal role in the founding of NaLHISA.

The former head of the national intelligence agency died earlier on Sunday after a lengthy illness at the age of 68.

In a statement issued by the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of NaLHISA, Ms Baleka Mbete, “I am personally devastated by the passing of Comrade Billy. On behalf of the Trustees of NaLHISA, we have lost a founding champion of our Organisation.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the wife and the family. May his tireless soul now rest and find peace.”

“The passing of Ambassador Masetlha is a great loss to NaLHISA. He still had a lot to contribute. He will be sorely missed,” Mr Joe Thloloe, a Trustee of the NaLHISA said.

“From the onset, Ambassador Masetlha was part of the strategic discussions and consultations that advanced this vision and ultimately led to the birth of NaLHISA,” the think-thank organisation added.

In a short tribute to Mr Masetlha, the Department of International Relations and Co-operations (Dirco) said: “[He] has served the government in various capacities … and was deeply involved in the anti-apartheid movement, including as a member of Umkhonto we Sizwe.

“Masetlha was exiled in Botswana and Zambia. During this time, he worked with the youth and student organisations in the fight against the apartheid regime.”

The office of Dirco minister Ms Naledi Pandor said South Africa had lost an experienced and dependable representative and a firm believer in the ideals and goals of pan-Africanism.

“We send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Ambassador Masetlha,” said Ms Pandor.

Mr Masetlha, who was also a presidential adviser, was fired from his role as director of intelligence by former President Thabo Mbeki in 2006 when their relationship soured.