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The funeral of struggle stalwart Ahmed Kathrada went ahead today without the attendance of President Jacob Zuma.
The Presidency clarified in a statement this morning that Zuma would not attend the funeral or memorial service “in compliance with the wishes of the family”.
Yesterday the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation had stated that Zuma was welcome to attend the funeral, but would not be allowed to speak.
The same was asked of Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa, who did attend the funeral with his wife.
Zuma postponed the start of today’s Cabinet meeting to later this afternoon to enable ANC members to attend the funeral.
The president expressed his deep sadness and extended his heartfelt condolences to former Public Enterprises Minister Barbara Hogan and family “on the passing of one of the most respected struggle stalwarts and former member of Parliament”.
Zuma directed that flags be flown at half-mast until the evening of the memorial service.
An official memorial service is being organised by government led by the Presidency, to pay tribute to the struggle hero.
Ramaphosa will lead the government delegation to the funeral and memorial service.
Kathrada, who died on Tuesday after complications following brain surgery, was laid to rest today at West Park Cemetery in Johannesburg.
