Final preparations are being made ahead of the special provincial Official Funeral: Category 2 for Major-General (Retired) André Lincoln.
SUPPLIEDThe African National Congress (ANC) in the Western Cape
says it welcomes the approval of a Special Provincial Official Funeral. The ANC called on the provincial government to grant
the former anti-gang unit head an official provincial funeral.
The ANC in the province says it's grateful to President
Cyril Ramaphosa for honouring their request for a Special Provincial Official
Funeral Category 2 for the late freedom fighter.
"Major General Andre Lincoln was more than a law
enforcement officer; he was a freedom fighter, a community protector, and a
patriot who remained committed to the ideals of justice, peace, and dignity
throughout his life. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and
in the institutions he helped strengthen,’’ said Khalid Sayed, ANC Western Cape
spokesperson.
Major-General Lincoln passed away on Friday, 30 May 2025,
at the age of 63, after a long illness.
The Special Provincial Official, Category 2 funeral, will
be a dignified occasion, reflecting the profound respect and gratitude the
nation holds for Major-General Lincoln’s extraordinary service. A Category 2
funeral is reserved for individuals who have made significant contributions to
South Africa, particularly in the fields of public service, security, and
governance. The funeral will include specific ceremonies, symbolic of the
nation’s collective tribute to his life and legacy.
Major-General Lincoln began his service as one of the
bodyguards for the late former President Nelson Mandela. In 1996, he was
appointed as the head of the Presidential Investigation Task Unit, where he
played a pivotal role in combating high-level crime and corruption. His most
notable contribution came during his tenure as the Head of the Western Cape
Anti-Gang Unit, where he championed efforts to combat gang violence on the Cape
Flats and restore peace and safety to the people who reside there.
In a statement, Loncoln’s family said his life is defined
by courage, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of justice.
‘’He was a towering figure in South Africa’s law
enforcement landscape. His career spanned nearly four decades, during which he
made an indelible impact on the fight against crime, particularly in
communities ravaged by gang violence in the Western Cape,’’ said Trevor Davids,
family spokesperson.
‘’The Lincoln family extends their heartfelt gratitude to
the South African Government, Western Cape Provincial Government, SAPS, and the
broader public for the outpouring of support and condolences during this
difficult time. They invite members of the public who wish to pay their
respects to attend the funeral service at St. James Church. Rev. Michael Weeder
will lead the civilian component of the funeral, with a special tribute delivered
by Dr. Alan Boesak. As we gather to bid
Major-General André Lincoln farewell, we do so with a deep sense of gratitude
for his unwavering commitment to the safety and security of our nation,’’ said
Davids.
The late Lincoln will be laid to rest on Saturday, 14 June
2025 at St. James Church, in Kenilworth
Done By: Mitchum George
Comments