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With messages and announcements, the world bids farewell to the South African Anglican Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and hero of the struggle against apartheid, that is, the white policy that defined and enforced the discrimination of human groups within a state on the basis of racial criteria in defined geographical areas.
Desmond Tutu died today at the age of 90, the country's president, Cyril Ramaphosa, announced.
"A man of integrity and invincible against apartheid"
President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his "deep sorrow at the death of this unparalleled patriot". His death "is a new chapter of mourning in the farewell to a generation of exceptional South Africans who bequeathed us a liberated South Africa."
"A man of extraordinary intelligence, intact and invincible against the forces of apartheid, he was also tender and vulnerable in his compassion for those who suffered () under apartheid and the oppressed and oppressors of the entire world," the South African president recalled.
The Mandela Foundation spoke of an immeasurable loss: "He was an extraordinary human being. A thinker. A leader. Shepherd."
"He dedicated his life to Human Rights."
Desmond Tutu's "battle" to end apartheid and to South African reconciliation will be remembered," French President Emmanuel Macron wrote on Twitter. "He dedicated his life to Human Rights and the equality of peoples."
"He was a decisive figure"
"He was a decisive figure in the fight against apartheid and in the creation of a new South Africa. He will be remembered for his intellectual leadership and irresistible cheerfulness," Prime Minister Boris Johnson wrote on Twitter expressing his deep sorrow.
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"A giant who stood up to apartheid"
European Council President Charles Michel paid tribute to "a man who gave his life for freedom with a deep commitment to human dignity. A giant who stood up to apartheid."
He showed the power of reconciliation and forgiveness
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gar Stere paid tribute on Facebook to a man "who showed the power of reconciliation and forgiveness".
"Hard blow for the entire continent of Africa"
President Uhuru Kenyatta said that "the death of Archbishop Desmond Tutu is a hard blow not only for South Africa () but also for the entire African continent, where he is highly respected and hailed as an architect of peace."
"Archbishop Tutu inspired a generation of African leaders who adopted a non-violent approach to the struggle for liberation."
"A giant has fallen"
"A giant has fallen. We thank God for his life a full life lived in service to humanity," tweeted Bobby Wein, leader of the opposition.
"In his laughter, we heard the joy of Jesus."
"In Desmond Tutu's eyes, we saw the love of Jesus."[/B]
"In Desmond Tutu's eyes, we saw the love of Jesus. In his voice, we heard the compassion of Jesus. In his laughter, we heard the joy of Jesus. He was charming and courageous. His greatest love is now a reality as he will meet face to face with the Lord," said Canterbury Archbishop Justin Welby."
The Dalai Lama hailed a "great man who lived a life of substance," "totally dedicated to the service of his brothers and sisters. "The friendship and spiritual bond between us was something we cherished," he said of his old friend."
Other reactions
The group of personalities who make up The Elders honored South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu by calling him an "inspiration" to the world. His "commitment to peace, love and equality" will remain.
Desmond Tutu, who died today at the age of 90, was the first president of this organization, founded in 2007 by Nelson Mandela, which brings together recognized figures working on global problems considered insurmountable.
"His death follows a long and courageous battle against illness, which never weakened his determination to fight against injustice in all its forms," the elders' statement said.
"The Elders have lost a precious friend, whose infectious laughter and wicked humor charmed us all.The world has lost an inspirational source whose accomplishments will never be forgotten and whose commitment to peace, love and the fundamental equality of all human beings will continue to inspire future generations."
Benise King, daughter of Martin Luther King wrote on Twitter : "We are better because he was in this world."
British musician Boy George said "delighted to have met Desmond Tutu, a beautiful soul who gave me faith in the fact that some people have great power of love. An extraordinary man, a powerful energy and one of God's best children."
Source: news247.gr
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