Deputy President briefs political party leaders on the state of readiness for official services for the late Winnie Madikizela-Mandela

Deputy President David Mabuza and Leader of Government Business (LOGB) has today, Tuesday 10 April 2018, held a briefing session with leaders of political parties represented in Parliament on the state of readiness for the Official Memorial and Funeral services of the late struggle stalwart Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, at the Union Buildings, Pretoria.

Following the sad news of the passing of Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a Special Official Funeral Category 1 in line with The Presidency’s State, Official and Provincial Official Funeral Policy. 

In this regard, Mama Madikizela-Mandela’s funeral will have elements of military ceremonial honours. The President has further declared days of mourning from 3 April 2018 until the funeral on Saturday, 14 April 2018.

Government has since established an Inter-Ministerial Committee led by the Minister in the Presidency, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, to oversee all logistical arrangements for both the Memorial and Funeral services of Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. The IMC comprises all relevant stakeholders, including the bereaved family of Mama Madikizela-Mandela. 

In the meeting today, Deputy President Mabuza thanked leaders of political parties for their unwavering support and commitment to honour Mama Madikizela-Mandela and the conduct of members of the public displayed at various memorial events taking place throughout the country. 

Deputy President Mabuza will deliver the official address at the Official Memorial Service on Wednesday, 11 April 2018 at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto. President Ramaphosa will deliver the eulogy at the Funeral Service on Saturday, 14 April 2018 also at Orlando Stadium, Soweto. Mama Madikizela-Mandela will be laid to rest at the Fourways Memorial Park Cemetery. 

Political parties were represented today by the Leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, Leader of the United Democratic Movement (UDM), Ret. Gen. Bantu Holomisa, Leader of the National Freedom Party (NFP), Prof. Khubisa, Leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), Mr Mmusi Maimane, and the Secretary General of the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) Mr. Raymond Tlaeli. 

Deputy President Mabuza has extended an invitation to all leaders of political parties to join hands in ensuring a pleasant and befitting send off for Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.
 

Media enquiries: Khusela Diko, Spokesperson to the President on 072 854 5707

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria