The decision by retail stores to close their businesses during former President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela’s funeral on Sunday is not only patriotic and an honour that the world’s greatest freedom fighter and father of our nation deserves but affords those employed by them to mourn and celebrate his life, North West Premier Thandi Modise said on Friday.

In expressing appreciation for the dignified manner in which members of the public conducted themselves at the provincial memorial service held in Orkney on Thursday, Premier Modise said that the people of the province have displayed the spirit of Ubuntu, which is the cornerstone of our democracy.Modise confirmed that as with the national memorial service, four public viewing areas have been arranged in the province for former President Nelson RolihlahlaMandela’s funeral service to be held on Sunday.She emphasised that the public viewing areas have been arranged to afford the public opportunity to converge for a celebration of the life of South Africa’s first democratically elected President while they follow the proceedingsin Qunu.“The decorum shown during this mourning period is a true reflection of the love for the father of our nation which should also be displayed at these public viewing areas as our last respect to Tata Mandela,” said Premier Modise. 

Members of the public are advised that doors will open at 9:30 at the Mmabatho Convention Centre in Mahikeng, Pheela Community Hall in Moses Kotane Local Municipality, Govan Mbeki Hall in Ikageng Township in Tlokwe and Huhudi Hall in Vryburg.-TDN
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