Tribute to Joseph Tsang Mang Kin

Remembrance

By Dr Amit Achameesing

Today, I pay my most heartfelt tribute to an exceptional man, Joseph Tsang Mang Kin –an intellectual, poet, diplomat, Freemason, humanist, and man of great compassion whose life deeply touched all those fortunate enough to have crossed his path. Joseph departed on 16th November 2024 in the early hours, but his legacy will endure through his writings, ideas, and the many lives shaped by his tireless commitment.

Born on March 12, 1938, in Mauritius, Joseph devoted his life to science, the arts, and practical endeavours. His remarkable journey, marked by achievements in various fields, was consistently guided by a profound passion for justice, history, and societal transformation. He was a visionary, a man of action, and one of reflection and sharing. His unwavering commitment to his country, Africa, and the world set him apart.

Joseph played a pivotal role in establishing the Mauritius embassies in France and Belgium after our island’s independence in 1968 — a landmark moment for our nation. Later, he amplified Mauritius’ standing in the global community through his work with the Commonwealth Foundation and the African Peer Review Mechanism of the African Union. In 1991, he became Secretary General of the Labour Party in Mauritius and in 1996 he became Minister of Arts and Culture under the leadership of the current Prime Minister, Dr Navin Ramgoolam. Beyond diplomacy and politics, Joseph was a man of culture, poetry, and philosophy, whose writings in French and English will continue to illuminate future generations.

What made Joseph unique was his ability to unite seemingly disparate worlds. He was simultaneously a poet and philosopher, an intellectual, and a man of action. He penned sonnets, essays, and plays, exploring subjects as diverse as Mauritius’ history, english and french literature, Chinese philosophy, Taoism, slavery, Francophonie, Freemasonry, classical music and the cultural divide between the East and the West, amongst others. He was a bridge between cultures, a tireless advocate for free thought and intercultural dialogue. His works in both French and English remain invaluable contributions to Mauritian and global literature.

Joseph did not seek the limelight. Instead, he worked quietly, advancing the causes dear to him with humility and discretion. Yet his influence was profound, spanning diplomatic, political, and intellectual spheres. His life was steeped in wisdom, enriched by his passion for Taoism and Freemasonry. He approached subjects like the history of Mauritius and the history of his Hakka heritage with great affection. The work of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, affectionately called “Chacha”, had always been his greatest inspiration.

I vividly recall Diwali on 31st October 2024. I was with him and his daughter Sabrina by his side. That day, Joseph, with characteristic wisdom, entrusted me with a precious mission. He said, his eyes gentle, “You know, my book on “Chacha” might remain unfinished, like Mozart’s Requiem, and it will be for you to finish it.” These words embody his essence — a deep sense of commitment and an extraordinary ability to pass on the torch, inspiring those close to him to carry forward his mission.

Throughout his life, Joseph was not only a source of knowledge but also a master in the art of sharing. He transmitted his wisdom, passions, ideals, and love for global culture and traditions. Though we mourn his loss today, we know that Joseph’s work does not end here. His spirit and passion will continue to live on in his writings, ideas, and the many lives he inspired. Calling me his spiritual son, he taught me that life is not only about achievements but also about sharing, transmitting, and pursuing an unceasing quest for righteousness and truth.

* * *

I KNOW

I know I’m going to die and I’m not sad!

It’s in the order of things and therefore I submit to it
I’m going to leave here without asking

Just like my coming that I didn’t ask for.

But what a joy to have come to this earth
With consciousness, eyes, and senses

Who allowed me to see and enjoy
the friendship of flowers and the sound of birds

And better, to feel united with Life
Who makes me breathe, inhabits me and that I inhabit.

Also, I know I’m never alone, too
That when it’s time to leave, I will be with Her.

Life, death, I say, and I have always known it:
It is the in-between of the same continuity…

Joseph Tsang Mang Kin
Floréal, January 27, 2024

Mauritius Times ePaper Friday 6 December 2024