'Dignified' funeral for Mama Sisulu

2011-06-05 22:23

Johannesburg - The official funeral of ANC veteran Albertina Sisulu will take place on Saturday at Orlando Stadium in Soweto, the Presidency announced on Sunday.

Several memorial services would take place during the week with the official memorial being held at the Tshwane City Hall on Thursday at 14:00, said Minister in the Presidency, Collins Chabane.

A night vigil will be held on Friday at the Holy Cross Church in Soweto from 19:00.

Chabane said condolence books would be available from Monday morning at a number of venues to allow people to record their thoughts and feelings for Mama Sisulu.

The books would be available at the Union Buildings in Tshwane, Tuynhuys in Cape Town, the Sisulu residence in Orlando West, Soweto and the Sisulu residence in Linden, Johannesburg.

Condolences

"Let me once again take this opportunity...to express our condolences to the Sisulu family following the passing away of Mama Albertina Sisulu," Chabane said at a media briefing on Sunday.

"She dedicated her life to serving this nation selflessly. We appreciate the overwhelming expressions of condolence, support and admiration for Mama Sisulu that have been recorded across the country and around the world.

Sisulu died at the age of 92 in her Linden home on Thursday.

"Mama Albertina Sisulu was a national leader and it is befitting that we accord her a dignified funeral which is befitting for a leader of her stature," he said.

Media accreditation for the funeral would be facilitated by Government Communications from Monday.

"We appreciate the dignity with which the media have conducted themselves...since Mama Sisulu’s passing."

- SAPA