CARICOM Secretary-General extends condolences on death of ‘great son’ of South Africa

The Secretary General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Carla Barnett said the regional grouping is profoundly saddened by the death of Archbishop Emeritus, Desmond Tutu of South Africa.

In a message of condolences, the CARICOM Secretary-General said: “Archbishop Tutu’s strong moral voice was a very significant factor in the successful struggle against the brutal racist policy of apartheid in his homeland. His compassionate leadership of South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission during the sensitive transition period that followed the end of apartheid further elevated his national and global esteem.

Archbishop Tutu, a Nobel Laureate, will be remembered as an indefatigable fighter for human rights, justice, equality and the environment whose unquestioned integrity cements his legacy as a global icon.

CARICOM extends its deepest sympathy to the family of Archbishop Tutu and the Government and people of South Africa on the loss of one of its greatest sons”.

Tutu, an Anglican was Bishop of Johannesburg from 1985-1986 and then Archbishop of Cape Town from 1986-1996, in both cases being the first black African to hold the position. He died on December 26 aged 90.