Queen Elizabeth II – Statement Following Death of Desmond Tutu

The statement made by Queen Elizabeth II on 26 December 2021.

I am joined by the whole Royal Family in being deeply saddened by the news of the death of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a man who tirelessly championed human rights in South Africa and across the world.

I remember with fondness my meetings with him and his great warmth and humour.

Archbishop Tutu’s loss will be felt by the people of South Africa, and by so many people in Great Britain, Northern Ireland and across the Commonwealth, where he was held in such high affection and esteem.