A planned appearance by former South African President, Thabo Mbeki, in Nigeria has been put on hold indefinitely following the death of his younger sister, Dr. Fezeka Mabona.
The development forced Mbeki to cancel his scheduled trip to Nigeria, leading organisers to postpone a fireside chat that was billed to hold on June 15.
The postponement was announced on Monday in a letter sent to invited guests by the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Amandla Institute, Prof. Adebayo Olukoshi.
According to Olukoshi, the former South African leader suffered a personal loss over the weekend and would no longer be able to attend the event, where he had been scheduled to deliver the keynote address.
“It is with deep regret that we announce the indefinite postponement of the proposed fireside chat scheduled for 15th June,” Olukoshi stated.
He explained that the decision became unavoidable following the death of Mbeki’s younger sister.
“Over the weekend, our keynote speaker, His Excellency, former South African President, Thabo Mbeki, suffered a personal bereavement following the loss of his younger sister and, understandably, has had to cancel his planned trip to Nigeria,” the letter read.
Olukoshi expressed regret over any disruption the postponement may cause participants and stakeholders, while thanking them for their understanding during the difficult period.
“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding at this difficult time,” he said.
He also urged friends, supporters and well-wishers to keep Mbeki and his family in their thoughts and prayers.
“Kindly join us in keeping President Mbeki and his immediate family in your thoughts and prayers,” the letter added.
No alternative date has been announced for the event.
