Mandela honoured by heads of state, royalty
JOBURG - Graca Machel, David Cameron, Charlize Theron and Bono are just some of the celebrities and dignitaries already at FNB Stadium for Mandela's memorial.
US president Barack Obama and the First Lady, Michelle Obama, arrived in the country on Tuesday morning. Obama will be speaking during the memorial and is reported to deliver a eulogogy that is around 20 minutes long. Minister Collins Chabane said three former United States Presidents – Jimmy Carter, George W Bush and Bill Clinton will also attend.
“[…] We will see the arrival of a large contingent of heads of state and government and a broad range of eminent persons, including royalty,” said Chabane. The fact that international leaders made their way to South Africa at such short notice, reflects the special place Mandela holds in the hearts of people around the globe.”
The Brazilian President, Dilma Rousseff, will be accompanied by four former heads of state – Presidents Sarney, Fernando Henrique Cardoso, and Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, confirmed Chabane. International and regional organisations from the United Nations and European Commission to the African Union are also in attendance. He also confirmed that 11 eminent persons would be in South Africa during this period.
Chabane added, “We are touched by the fact that many countries have declared periods of mourning, ordered that flags be flown at half-mast and draped or lit landmarks in the colours of the South African flag. We truly appreciate these gestures.
“We appreciate the willingness showed by a broad range of eminent persons to come to South Africa to join us personally at this time of mourning, reflection and celebration of Nelson Mandelas life and legacy,” he said.
Past and present Springbok captains Morne du Plessis, Francois Pienaar and Jean de Villers are also in the crowd
