MaWinnie’s official farewells

DEPUTY President David Mabuza met the leaders of opposition parties yesterday and encouraged them to “join hands in ensuring a pleasant and befitting send-off for Mama Winnie MadikizelaMandela”, the presidency said in a statement.

“Deputy President Mabuza thanked leaders of political parties for their unwavering support and commitment to honour Mama MadikizelaMandela and the conduct of various members of the public displayed at… memorial events taking place throughout the country,” the statement said.

IFP leader Mangosuthu Buthelezi, United Democratic Movement (UDM) leader Bantu Holomisa, DA leader Mmusi Maimane, National Freedom Party (NFP) secretary general Nhlanhla Khubisa and Raymond Tlaeli, the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) leader, attended the meeting.

Mabuza spoke about the the state of readiness for the official memorial for maWinnie, who was affectionately known as the Mother of the Nation.

“Following the sad news of the passing of Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, President Cyril Ramaphosa declared a Special Official Funeral Category 1… In this regard, Mama Madikizela-Mandela’s funeral will have elements of both military and ceremonial honours.

“Deputy President Mabuza will deliver the official address at the official memorial service on Wednesday, 11 April 2018 at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto, while President Ramaphosa will deliver the eulogy at the official funeral.” – African News Agency (ANA)