Waves of anger has accompanied news of the murder of Martin Irish, the former stockbroker and financial services guru whose body was discovered in his Bryanston home this week. A witty, highly articulate man, he was incredibly well networked at the top end of society both in South Africa and abroad. The common theme among those who have spontaneously responded to Biznews has been their acknowledgement of a deeply considerate person who was widely liked and highly respected. Here are some of the comments. Martin would have been touched that so many people from such elevated echelons cared about him this much. Our thoughts and prayers are with his children and his extended family within the Caxton Group. – Alec Hogg
From Victor Hugo:Â
Thank you for acknowledging Martin. Please thank Simon Reader as well.
Martin was my first stockbroker when I was a twenty-something “snotkop” – and afterwards. He inspired and taught me as well. Not only about investing. More about the timeless stuff that motivates expectation and behaviour. He was always patient and he seemed to thrive on my curiosity.
He also had a wicked sense of humour, a glorious ability to find and say truth and facts. I walked with him in the bush. Like me, he was in awe of nature.
Decent people in South Africa must continue to insist on zero tolerance for violence and destruction. The only way is to set example, maintain standards of rightness, encourage the candles in a dark room, while insisting on efficient policing and justice. We cannot give up. Aspects of history must not be allowed to rationalise crime.
I am sad and angry that we have lost Martin.
From Hoosen Kolia:
Thanks for carrying the piece on Martin Irish. He was a dear friend and I’m in a daze. We last spoke a week ago. So hard to take in.
From his neighbour Melissa Botha:
Lovely tribute. He is / was my next door neighbour. My son (7) was one of the last to see him alive when he promised to bring him a chocolate on Monday evening. Quite a shock.
