As a mark of deep respect, President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the late Anglican Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Mpilo Tutu be accorded a Special Official Funeral.
Tutu who was a globally venerated theologian, anti-apartheid campaigner and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, passed away on Sunday, December 26 in Cape Town.
According to a statement issued by the Presidency on Tuesday, December 28 the Special Official Funeral will take place in St George’s Cathedral, Cape Town, on New Year’s Day.
Also read: Desmond Tutu described as an embodiment of faith
The statement said Ramaphosa has designated the late leader’s funeral as a Special Official Funeral Category 1.
“The distinguishing features of a Special Official Funeral Category 1 include ceremonial elements by the South African National Defence Force.
“On this particular occasion and based on the late Archbishop’s wishes, the South African National Defence Force ceremonial content will be limited to the handing over of the National Flag to Mam Leah Tutu,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, as part of this funeral designation, the National Flag will be half-masted throughout the country and at South African diplomatic missions worldwide from sunset on Tuesday, December 28 until the evening of the funeral.
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Picture: Earuactiv