Mugabe wasn't invited
2003-05-18 21:52
Johannesburg - "In our tradition we don't invite people to the funeral, they just come because they want to after being informed."
This was the reaction of Max Sisulu, son of the late Walter Sisulu, after queries why President Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe attended his father's funeral.
Mugabe's presence caused public outcry and some irate Zimbabweans even asked that he be arrested.
Jay Jay Sibanda, leader of the Concerned Zimbabweans Abroad, said Mugabe stayed at a top hotel, while many Zimbabwean were starving. Rumours have it that Mugabe stayed in the luxurious Westcliff Hotel.
"He is not a hero, so he must not attend the funeral of a hero who fought for liberation. He is a disaster in Zimbabwe," Sibanda said
According to a Zimbabwean government official the South African government, and not the Sisulu famliy, informed Mugabe about the funeral.
Because it was a state funeral the government was responsible for the arrangements. Max Sisulu said he was happy with the way things were organised.