Picture: The late Billy Masetlha, who was the South African ambassador to the Republic of Algeria/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
The heartfelt condolence messages continue to pour in after the passing of the South African ambassador to the Republic of Algeria. Billy Masetlha passed away on Sunday after a long illness. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said the passing of Masetlha deeply saddens it.
The minister of Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Naledi Pandor said: “Masetlha has served the government in various capacities, including as the Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) 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. South Africa has lost an experienced and dependable representative and a firm believer in the ideals and goals of Pan-Africanism.”
Pandor further said, as the department, they sent their deepest condolences to the family and friends of Masetlha.
The Guardian 