President Jacob Zuma and The Presidency extend good wishes to the Presidential Spokesperson and Special Advisor, Mr Mac Maharaj, who celebrates his 80th birthday today.
Mr Mac Maharaj has dedicated his entire adult life to the struggle for freedom.
He is a former Cabinet Minister in South Africa's first democratic administration.
Mr Maharaj is a veteran of the national liberation struggle, extending his services to its every facet, most notably including as a member of the armed wing of the ruling African National Congress (ANC), uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), a former Robben Island prisoner along former President Nelson Mandela and a seasoned negotiator who contributed in the drafting of the country's Constitution.
The former MK commander (Operation Vula) has previously served as a member of the NEC of the ANC from 1985 to 1990 and 1991 to 2000. He was also a Director of the First Rand Limited from 1999 to 2003.
Regarded widely in the academic circles as well, Mr Maharaj also worked as a Faculty Member and chaired the Democracy Project of Bennington College in Vermont, in the United States of America. In the year 2008, he produced a regular column for the Sunday Times newspaper.
Mr Maharaj has several publications to his name, including a book of essays entitled "Reflections in Prison". He was also editorial consultant for the "Authorised Portrait of Nelson Mandela" and has another publication in his name such as the biography published by Padraig O'Malley under the title "Shades of Difference".
"Reaching the age of 80 is a remarkable milestone. He has had an eventful life and has contributed immensely to this country and to creating a better life for all our people. Even at the age of 80 he continues to dedicate himself to building a better society. We wish Comrade Mac Maharaj a happy and memorable 80th birthday and many more," said President Zuma.
Mr Maharaj retires next week and plans to slow down.
"We cannot imagine Mac not doing anything at all. He will still find a way to contribute to the life of our country in retirement as he has done all his life, said the President.
Enquiries:
Zanele Mngadi
Cell: 082 330 1148
