EVERYONE who spoke at the funeral of Alan Pillay at his home in Isipingo on September 5 described him as a principled man who served his country meticulously.

Also read: Obituary: Julian Beaumont Lyle

A dedicated public servant, Pillay (58) worked in the Presidency during Nelson Mandela’s tenure from 1994 to 1999, and continued in the same office when Thabo Mbeki took over. In a statement, the Thabo Mbeki Foundation expressed great sadness at Pillay’s passing following an illness.

“Working alongside others in the private office of the president under these demanding circumstances, Alan consistently displayed good humour, an excellent work ethic, and comradely co-operation. He maintained a steadfast confidence in the capacity of the government and the people to overcome all obstacles on the path to a better life. He took immense pride in the camaraderie that united the 300-strong staff of the Presidency,” read the statement.

When former President Mbeki left government in 2008, Pillay asked the Presidency to second him so he could continue working with him. The request was granted, and from then until his death, he served as Mbeki’s personal assistant. Together, he and Mbeki had to manage an extensive domestic and international programme without the vast government machinery to which they were accustomed.

“It has been rightly said that Alan Pillay exemplified the unsung pillars upon which great work is built. We convey our heartfelt condolences to his son, Nikhilan, and the entire Pillay family. We share deeply in your grief at the loss of someone so cherished by you, and by us, his friends and comrades-in-arms,” read the statement.

Former cabinet minister Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi, the chairperson of the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, attended the funeral and paid tribute to Pillay, saying the journey of more than 30 years he shared with Mbeki had been most rewarding.

Mandela’s former secretary, Zelda La Grange, also paid tribute to Pillay, describing him as one of the kindest people she had ever worked with.

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