Pretoria – Members of the public have been advised that the cut-off has been reached for the number of people wishing to view the late former President Nelson Mandela’s body at the Union Buildings this afternoon.
Madiba’s body will be lying in state at the Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre until 5.30pm.
“Large numbers of people are still in queues at the various points around the City of Tshwane from which mourners are being transported to the Union Buildings. Government welcomes the interest people have showed in wanting to bid Madiba farewell, but we have reached the limit for the day,” said ta statement issued by the Government Communication and Information System this afternoon.
The city had implemented a park-and-ride system and members of the public are being picked up from the Tshwane Events Centre and the LC de Villiers sports complex in Hatfield. The Fountains Valley site is an overflow point, from which visitors are transferred to the Events Centre or LC de Villiers.
Government has appealed for patience as as many people are being accommodated as possible.
It urged mourners to set out from home early in the morning and be prepared to wait in line and comply with the very strict military protocols that govern the lying-in-state.
“Government appeals for calm and decency in cases where people are turned away, as the protocol dictates that viewing is from 8am to 5.30pm. Organisers will stop loading people onto buses at about 4-4.30pm,” said the GCIS.
No identity documents or accreditation is required for this event.
Government said while children are welcome to join their parents, parents must use the necessary discretion as the event can be emotional for some adults or children.
Madiba’s body will also be lying in state on Thursday and Friday from 8am to 5.30pm. – SAnews.gov.za
