Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has wished Archbishop Desmond Tutu a hearty birthday and a long and healthy life as he turns 80 years old.
The Archbishop celebrated his birthday at the St George's Cathedral in Cape Town earlier today with friends, family and dignitaries, including Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe.
"Archbishop Tutu has a special place in the hearts of our people for the manner in which he stood up against the apartheid state, speaking out against injustice and oppression.
"His campaign against sanctions added greater impetus to that of the liberation movement led by the African National Congress, and kept the spirit of resistance high inside the country," said Zuma in a statement.
He added that the Archbishop has continued to play an important role in the country, and is admired by thousands of people.
"As one of our four Nobel Peace Prize Laureates, we respect him, love him and always welcome his counsel on issues. Happy Birthday Arch, ukhule njalo [keep growing]!" he said.
