We mourn a true South African hero who showed us the best we could be

26 December 2021

A true South African giant has left us today, but his spirit will live on in the everyday kindness we South Africans show each other, and in our continued effort to build a united, successful, nonracial South Africa for all.

Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu left an indelible mark on the fabric of South African society, having played a key role in ending Apartheid and in the peaceful transition to constitutional democracy through the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. For almost three decades since, he has been a voice of reason and compassion against poverty, racism, xenophobia and corruption, and for human development. When we lost our way, he was the moral compass that brought us back.

In relation to the HIV epidemic, he took a stand for compassion and HIV prevention and treatment. His Desmond Tutu Health Foundation has worked tirelessly to fulfill his mission to protect individuals, families and communities in South Africa from the HIV epidemic.

He worked towards ending stigma of all kinds, speaking out against the infringement of LGBTIQ rights across Africa.

He was a most wonderful individual, possessing both great kindness and great courage. A true father of our nation, and a role model for all, who never shied from speaking truth to power. The Democratic Alliance will continue to work towards building the South Africa he envisaged.

We extend our deepest condolences to his wife and family and other loved ones. As a nation, we are in mourning, for we have all lost a most remarkable, special individual who showed us the best we could be

Statement issued by John Steenhuisen MP, Leader of the Democratic Alliance, 26 December 2021