The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has extended its heartfelt condolences to the family of former Reserve Bank Governor and Finance Minister, Tito Mboweni, following his passing. Mboweni died yesterday in a Johannesburg hospital after a brief illness.
In a statement, the EFF acknowledged its frequent disagreements with Mboweni on policy matters, but noted that he was always open to robust, intellectual debates. The party also highlighted Mboweni’s surprising support for radical policy ideas, such as the establishment of a state-owned bank, the creation of a sovereign wealth fund, and the nationalisation of the Reserve Bank—ideas that many found unconventional.
The EFF also paid tribute to Mboweni’s more personal side, mentioning how he became known for his culinary skills, which he enthusiastically shared on social media during his retirement. ActionSA also expressed its condolences, praising Mboweni as an activist who lived a full life, dedicated to good causes. The party commended his role in fighting apartheid and his contributions to the democratic era. It noted that Mboweni often stood firm in his beliefs, even pushing back against some of his comrades’ excesses in favor of reason.
ActionSA also extended its sympathies to Mboweni’s family, friends, and colleagues in the African National Congress (ANC) and other circles who held him in high regard. The ANC, in its statement, remembered Mboweni for his life of sacrifice, dedication, and selfless service to South Africa.
Tracing his political journey, the ANC recalled that Mboweni left his studies at the University of the North (Turfloop) in 1980 and, as a leader of the Azanian Students Organisation (AZASO), went into exile in Lesotho. It was during his exile in 1985 that Mboweni joined the ANC.
At the end of apartheid, Mboweni played a key role in shaping the economic debates that framed the transition to democracy. His contributions were recognized by Nelson Mandela, who appointed him as Labour Minister in South Africa’s first democratic government.
