The family of Shaleen Surtie Richards said in a statement on Friday, 11 June, that president Ramaphosa has officially approved a Provincial funeral.
They said that in addition, the President has issued an instruction that all National Flags are to be flown at Half-Mast in the Western Cape Province on Sunday “in honour and respect of our beloved Shaleen Surtie Richards”.
“The Family would like to take this opportunity to thank our President for this gesture in honouring and recognising the contribution and accomplishments of a creative industry legend,” they said.
The funeral will take place at 14.30 on Sunday 13 June at Durbanville Memorial Park in Cape Town. The family added that all COVID-19 protocols will be observed, and limited attendance to the proceedings will therefore be in place.
“However, we do invite all to commemorate Shaleen’s life via the dedicated streaming platform and or via our national broadcaster,” they said.
Surtie Richard’s family said that they would be “remiss by not acknowledging and thanking Premier Winde and his office for all the support, assistance and understanding in this trying time”.
Winde said in a statement on Friday that he is pleased that his request was approved, and extended his continued sympathy to the family.
I am pleased to note that President Cyril Ramaphosa has approved the request for a Special Provincial Funeral for champion of the arts, Shaleen Surtie Richards, he said.
I can think of no better way to honour someone who has contributed so much to our province and country’s creative community and industry.
Chris