Kader Asmal

Abdul Kader Asmal (1934-2011), a noted human rights jurist and anti-apartheid advocate, was born into a modest Muslim family of Indian descent in Natal, South Africa. His early exposure to racial discrimination shaped his unwavering commitment to equality and justice, prompting him to abandon a teaching career for the study of law. After receiving his legal education at the London School of Economics and qualifying at Lincoln's Inn, he pursued socialist law. His key roles in the underground...See more

Abdul Kader Asmal (1934-2011), a noted human rights jurist and anti-apartheid advocate, was born into a modest Muslim family of Indian descent in Natal, South Africa. His early exposure to racial discrimination shaped his unwavering commitment to equality and justice, prompting him to abandon a teaching career for the study of law. After receiving his legal education at the London School of Economics and qualifying at Lincoln's Inn, he pursued socialist law. His key roles in the underground South African Communist Party and the African National Congress underpinned his crucial involvement in both national and international anti-apartheid activism. Additionally, Asmal's academic pursuits led him to serve as dean at Trinity College Dublin, contributing extensively to scholarly literature.Upon the ANC's unbanning in 1991, Asmal returned to South Africa and played an instrumental role in drafting the new constitution. His political career included tenures as Minister for Water Affairs and Forestry and later as Minister for Education. Even while battling cancer, he tirelessly campaigned against corruption, advocating for transparency within the ANC. Post-politics, he maintained his active engagement in human rights advocacy through various academic roles. Asmal, who passed away in 2011, is revered for his tireless pursuit of justice and equality, leaving behind an enduring legacy in South African and international politics. See less