The prominent civil rights activist died of a heart attack en route to South Africa.

Political analyst Dr. Nandine Patel confirmed the death saying the civil rights defender, succumbed to a heart attack.

Those we have spoken to say they will cherish Hajat as a professional who devoted his time to truthfully serving Malawi.

Chairperson for the Human Rights Defenders Coalition Gift Trapence has described Hajat's death as a big blow to the country's human rights sector.

“Malawi has lost a dedicated fighter of civil rights,” Trapence said.

While reminiscing, the works they had to put up together, civil rights activist Emmie Chanika has described the late Hajat as a true Malawian who stood up to the rights of this country.

“I would write a book about him but all I can say is Rafiq dedicated his life to protect the rights of others in this country,” she said.

Rafik Hajat has died aged 65 while serving as the Executive Director for the institute of policy interaction