State President PW Botha
1 November 2006
The Presidency has announced today, Wednesday, 1 November, that the flags
will be flown at half mast from tomorrow until the day of the burial of the
late former Prime Minister and State President PW Botha, who will receive a
private funeral.
The announcement follows the visit of the Director-General in The
Presidency, Rev. Frank Chikane, to Mrs Botha and the family in Wilderness
today. The purpose of the visit was to consult on various options extended to
the family in relation to state funerals.
Although the family requested a private funeral, the Rev. Frank Chikane
said, âThe state still has a responsibility by way of a range of services to
the family in keeping with requirements for the funerals of former
presidents.â
Rev. Chikane further extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the
President, government and the nation. He was well received, and the family
accepted the condolences and appreciated the noble gesture extended by the
government.
In reiterating the government's commitment to assist in whatever way
possible, Rev. Chikane briefed the family on the elements of state
funerals.
Accordingly, President Mbeki has instructed that the South African flag, as
of tomorrow, 2 November, should be flown half-mast until the evening of the day
of the funeral. The public is invited to sign books of condolences which will
be opened at the Union Buildings and Tuynhuys from tomorrow, 2 November, until
the day of the funeral. Rev. Chikane further indicated that the government
offered to provide assistance to family members with funeral arrangements.
The funeral for the late Mr Botha will be held in George next Wednesday, 8
November, at 14h00. As per request of the family, the funeral service will be
open to members of the public at the Old Dutch Reformed Church followed by a
private burial reserved for the family.
Enquiries:
David Hlabane
Cell: 082 561 9428
Issued by: The Presidency
1 November 2006
