FM joins tributes to Archbishop Desmond Tutu following his death
The Nobel Peace Prize winner, one of the leaders of South Africa's anti-apartheid movement, was 90
Last updated 26th Dec 2021
The First Minister is among those paying tribute to Nobel Peace Prize laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu following his death aged 90.
Writing on Twitter Nicola Sturgeon said: “Such sad news this morning…but his was a life that made the world a better place.
Rest in peace, Archbishop Desmond Tutu.”
Health Secretary Humza Yousaf also paid his respects, writing: “Such sad news to wake up to this morning, but also the opportunity to celebrate the life of an incredible man.
A giant of the anti-Apartheid movement. A global moral compass on so many issues, much needed in the times we live in.
Rest in peace and power Desmond Tutu.”
Tutu, who helped end apartheid in South Africa, died in Cape Town on Boxing Day.
Piyushi Kotecha, chief executive of the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, and chairman Niclas Kjellstrom-Matseke said in a statement that Tutu was "a living embodiment of faith in action".
In a statement on the foundation's website, they added he spoke "boldly against racism, injustice, corruption and oppression, not just in apartheid South Africa but wherever in the world he saw wrongdoing, especially when it impacted the most vulnerable and voiceless in society."
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Archbishop Desmond Tutu would be remembered for his leadership and humour.
He said: "I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
"He was a critical figure in the fight against apartheid and in the struggle to create a new South Africa - and will be remembered for his spiritual leadership and irrepressible good humour."
According to the trust, he died peacefully at the Oasis Frail Care Centre in Cape Town. A cause of death has not been given.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said it was "another chapter of bereavement in our nation's farewell to a generation of outstanding South Africans who have bequeathed us a liberated South Africa".
"Desmond Tutu was a patriot without equal; a leader of principle and pragmatism who gave meaning to the biblical insight that faith without works is dead," he tweeted.
"We pray that Archbishop Tutu's soul will rest in peace but that his spirit will stand sentry over the future of our nation."