The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is saddened by the passing of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, one of the iconic champions who fought against the unjust regime of apartheid in South Africa and who was a champion for the less fortunate everywhere.
Desmond Tutu was instrumental in the dismantling of the apartheid system in South Africa, and accompanied Nelson Mandela when he made his first public address after 27 years of political imprisonment. His advocacy earned him a Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 and he continued his work after apartheid fell by Chairing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in South Africa.
The Archbishop remained an outspoken critic against injustice all over the globe and continue to use his profile to draw much-needed attention to a range of issues and potential conflicts.
Trinidad and Tobago was very fortunate to have Desmond Tutu visit Trinidad and Tobago and to regard us as "a rainbow country".
The world owes a great debt to Archbishop Desmond Tutu for his critical intervention not only in ending apartheid but in addressing other areas that benefited from his signature approach of peaceful mediation. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
