Tributes pours in for Desmond Tutu

Spiritual and national leaders the world over have praised the late archbishop Desmond Tutu for his work and dedication to human rights and justice.

Many took to social media to express their gratitude for Tutu’s work after his death at the age of 90 was announced on Sunday.

Tibet’s exiled leader, the Dalai Lama – a long-time friend of Tutu and, like him, a past recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize – in a letter addressed to Tutu’s daughter Mpho described him as a true humanitarian who was a committed advocate for human rights.

“With his passing away, we have lost a great man, who lived a truly meaningful life,” the Dalai Lama stated.

“He was devoted to the service of others, especially those who are least fortunate. I am convinced the best tribute we can pay him and keep his spirit alive is to do as he did and constantly look to see how we too can be of help to others,” the Tibetan spiritual leader wrote.

The principal leader of the Church of England, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, added that the world is different because of Tutu, who while serving as archbishop of Cape Town – the most senior position in the Anglican Church in South Africa – and as general secretary of the South African Council of Churches was a fierce critic of the apartheid system in South Africa.

“Archbishop Tutu was a prophet and priest, a man of words and action, one who embodied the hope and joy that were the foundations of his life,” Welby stated.

“He was a man of extraordinary personal courage and bravery: when the police burst into Cape Town Cathedral, he defied them by dancing down the aisle,” Welby recounted.

Former United States president Barack Obama added that Tutu was a mentor and a moral compass for many.

“A universal spirit, archbishop Tutu was grounded in the struggle for liberation and justice in his own country, but also concerned with justice everywhere,” Obama remarked.

Former Malawian president Joyce Banda said the continent and the entire world has lost a distinguished son. “He was a man gifted with great wisdom,” said Banda.

Former South African Democratic Alliance leader Mmusi Maimane said the values that Tutu upheld are worth fighting for.

“As the One South Africa Movement we shall continue to do the difficult and urgent work of fighting for a truly reconciled South Africa that prioritises justice, peace and nation-building,” said Maimane.