6 May 2003
Cape Town - Walter Sisulu's death meant that "an outstanding stalwart of our struggle has fallen," Anglican Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu said on Tuesday.
"We give thanks to God for his dedication and commitment and his remarkable humility. We owe a great deal to him an unpayable debt for what he and his family have contributed to our struggle and the establishment of freedom, justice and democracy," Tutu said in a statement.
Sisulu died in the arms of his wife Albertina on Monday night. He was 90.
Tutu said Sisulu was "one of the greatest sons of our soil who mentored Nelson Mandela and did not mind playing second fiddle. He was not interested in personal kudos.
"We are where we are today because of this great man whose name will forever be blazoned in letters of gold in the annals of our beloved land and mother continent.
"Our deepest condolences to Sis Albertina and the entire Sisulu clan. God be praised."