Breyten Breytenbach, a celebrated anti-apartheid writer and activist, has passed away at the age of 85, his family announced. The South African-born poet, novelist, and painter died peacefully in his sleep in Paris, surrounded by his wife Yolande. Breytenbach's remarkable life was marked by his fearless critique of apartheid and his tireless advocacy for human rights, earning him international admiration and numerous accolades.

Born in the Western Cape in 1939, Breytenbach was part of the Sestigers, a group of Afrikaans poets and writers who sought to challenge the racist apartheid regime through their work. Despite being forced into exile in the 1960s, he continued to write and speak out against apartheid, earning him a seven-year prison sentence in 1975 for attempting to aid resistance groups in South Africa. During his imprisonment, he wrote poetry and later published his novel, The True Confessions of an Albino Terrorist, a harrowing account of his experiences.

Breytenbach's activism extended beyond South Africa, as he spoke out against injustices worldwide. In 2002, he penned an open letter to then-Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, condemning the treatment of Palestinians. His writing and art continued to inspire and provoke, with over 50 books published during his lifetime. His surreal paintings, often depicting humans and animals in captivity, reflected his deep concern for human rights and freedom.

Tributes have poured in for Breytenbach, with French former education minister Jack Lang describing him as "a rebel with a tender heart" who was "part of all the struggles for human rights." Breytenbach's family remembered him as "an immense artist, militant against apartheid, he fought for a better world until the end." His legacy as a fearless advocate for justice and human rights will endure, inspiring future generations to challenge oppression and fight for freedom.

Breytenbach is survived by his wife Yolande, daughter Daphnée, and two grandsons. His passing marks the loss of a remarkable voice for justice and human rights, but his work and legacy will continue to inspire and challenge the world. As a testament to his impact, Breytenbach was awarded France's top cultural honor, the Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters. His life and work serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of speaking truth to power and fighting for a more just and equitable world.