The memorial service of one of the world’s most-loved politicians will take place on Tuesday at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, and scores of politicians from across the planet are expected to arrive in this week in order to pay their respects.

Officials said the security plan was replicated from the 2010 soccer World Cup. Minister in the Presidency for Performance Monitoring and Evaluation, Collins Chabane yesterday refused to comment any further on security arrangements.

What we can say is that all the events and those who attend them are safe. I assure you, we have very strict security measures in place. It is a state funeral, category 1, meaning a state funeral with full military ceremonial honours.  This entails a guard-of-honour and troops for a 21-gun salute, pall bearers, fly pasts, a gun carriage to carry the coffin, a military band and a marching escort.

The master plan behind securing Madiba’s memorial service, and the protecting the huge number of high-profile mourners has been four years in the making, according to government, and everything is in place to guarantee the safety of over 50 world leaders, scores of foreign and South African dignitaries, and thousands of mourners.

The 800-strong 14 SA Infantry Battalion has been put in place for the state funeral in Qunu, Eastern Cape, on Sunday. At least two SA Navy frigates will also be stationed off the Eastern Cape coast. A no-fly zone has also been imposed over Mthatha airport, with continuous aerial surveillance.

A current total of 59 heads of state have committed to attending the memorial service.

The Obamas have invited the Bush family to fly to South Africa alongside them in the Air Force One, while Prince Charles will attend the service on behalf of Queen Elizabeth.

Ex-president Bill Clinton, who was in office when Mandela took power to become South Africa’s first black president, also said that he would be making the trip with his family.

UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, has also committed to travel to Johannesburg for the memorial service, along with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto. 13 other African heads of state have also been confirmed.

“From 11 to 13 December, the remains of our beloved Madiba will lie in state at the seat of government, the Union Buildings in Pretoria, where he served as the first president of this young democracy,” Zuma said.

“During these days, official memorial services will also be held in all provinces and regions.”

[Source : Times Live, Mail & Guardian, News24, IOL]