Dear Comrades,

Leadership of the South African Communist Party, 

We are deeply sorry to hear that Comrade Chris "Che" Matlhako , passed away. As the Secretary for International Affairs of the South African Communist Party and Central Committee member, Comrade Chris has fulfilled a very important role, not only for his own Party, but also for the international communist movement. 

It has been an honour for us to welcome him in Türkiye on several occasions, including the International Meetings of Communist and Workers' Parties, as well as on numerous solidarity actions towards our work here. 

We will always remember his wisdom, calm, constructive and hopeful attitude, his impressive speeches and interventions, stemming from his decades long experience in many fronts of the communist struggle. He has been a loyal and committed revolutionary all his life, leaving us with a very valuable example. 

Allow me to express that our very open conversation with him, on the future of the international communist movement during the SACP Congress in 2017, will remain as a long-lasting memory of our friendship for myself. 

On behalf of the Communist Party of Türkiye,  we extend our condolences to his family, friends and comrades. His memory will remain alive, illuminating our struggle. 

Comradely, 

Kemal Okuyan

General Secretary

Communist Party of Türkiye