Photo by Lulekwa Mbadamane
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu was a fighter who never stopped speaking out against injustices. He said in his quest for justice and forgiveness, Tutu guarded Mzansi to choose a reconciliatory when others wanted to retaliate. The President said this during Tutu’s funeral held at the St George’s Cathedral in Cape Town on Saturday 1 January 2022.
“The Arch bequeathed us many things, the importance of having the courage of one’s convictions, solidarity with the oppressed, delivering on the promises made by the Constitution, and many others. But it was with this term, rainbow nation, that he bequeathed our new nation the greatest gift of all: hope and forgiveness,” said Ramaphosa.
Ramaphosa who awarded Tutu with Category 1 state funeral said the program was unique and it was the first time in history to have a “Category 1 funeral with religious characteristics".
Photo by Lulekwa Mbadamane
Photo by Lulekwa Mbadamane
The church led the service in the first half where the church leaders and family spoke before giving the president the platform. Archbishop of Cape Town Rev Thabo Makgoba and Rev Michael Weeder.
Photo by Lulekwa Mbadamane
Tutu’s daughter Nontombi said they have been overwhelmed with love and support shown to the family.
Photo by Lulekwa Mbadamane
Photo by Lulekwa Mbadamane
"Many of the messages we received have said 'thank you for sharing him with the world' well, actually it is a two-way street because we shared him with the world and you shared part of the love you have for him with us and so we are thankful. We are thankful that many of you have gathered in your many places, in person or via the wonders of technology to be a part of celebrating daddy's life throughout this week," she said.
Anglican bishops carrying the coffin of Archbishop Desmond Tutu out of the church after the funeral service. Photo by Lulekwa Mbadamane
The President further said Tutu never stopped speaking truth to power even after the advent of democracy.
“He did not hesitate to draw attention, often harshly, to our shortcomings as leaders of the democratic State,” he said.
Amongst the leaders who attended the funeral include princess Mabel van Oranje,
former president Thabo Mbeki,former president Kgalema Motlanthe, former Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, former president of Ireland and Mary Robinson. Another notable face was Bantu Holomisa, acting Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, Premier of the Western Cape Alan Winde and Mayor of the City of Cape Town, Mr Geordin Hill-Lewis.
Former president Kgalema Motlanthe was one of man leaders who attended Archbishop Desmond Tutu's funeral. Photo by Lulekwa Mbadamane
Lewis-Hill said it was a “fitting sending to a great man” who fought to have a country where people put aside hate for the good of the nation.
Get the best in Soccer, News and Lifestyle content with SNL24 PLUS
For 14 free days, you can have access to the best from Soccer Laduma, KickOff, Daily Sun, TrueLove and Drum. Thereafter you will be billed R29 per month. You can cancel anytime and if you cancel within 14 days you won't be billed.
