Zwelakhe Sisulu dies aged 61

Former SABC CEO Zwelakhe Sisulu, son of the late struggle veterans Walter and Albertina Sisulu, has died at the age of 61, the presidency said on Thursday.

"We have learnt with shock and sadness of the passing on of such a distinguished South African and patriot this morning," it said in a statement.

"We are truly saddened by the loss, and extend our deepest condolences to the entire Sisulu family."

A freedom fighter and journalist, Sisulu established himself as an astute businessman after 1994.

He worked as chief executive of the SA Broadcasting Corporation and was editor of the New Nation newspaper.