Tutu Trust demands removal of the Arch's name from Marabastad Refugee Centre
‘The Archbishop Tutu IP Trust’ has instructed its lawyers to withdraw the Archbishop’s permission to call the Marabastad refugee centre, in Pretoria, the Desmond Tutu Refugee Reception Centre.
An installation of Archbishop Desmond Tutu wearing a special Palestinian-African scarf has been unveiled at the Old Granary Building in Cape Town. The statue will be displayed daily until the war in Gaza stops. Picture: Carlo Petersen/Eyewitness News
Dr. Mamphela Ramphele joins Lester to discuss the decision by the Archbishop Tutu IP Trust to withdraw Archbishop Tutu's name from the Marabastad Refugee Centre.
Click below to listen to the audio
Eight years ago, the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu permitted his name to be used at a Home Affairs refugee centre in Pretoria.
Today, those running the Archbishop Tutu IP Trust want his name removed from the Desmond Tutu Refugee Reception Centre in Marabastad.
It follows several allegations of human rights violations and corruption at the facility since 2016. ·
In 2018 Archbishop Tutu himself expressed disappointment over poor conditions at the facility.
The trust says the permission was granted based on the Department of Home Affairs' commitment to high standards and humane treatment.
They say the agreement includes a clause for the name to be withdrawn if the Archbishop’s reputation is at risk.
Trust chairperson Dr Mamphele Rampele says the decision was not taken lightly.
"We are dealing with a very precious name, trademark, IP, an icon of humanity."
Dr. Mamphela Ramphele, Chairperson - Archbishop Tutu IP Trust
"We have a mandate, given to us by the Arch, to honour and protect and safeguard his legacy."
Dr Mamphela Ramphele, Chairperson - Archbishop Tutu IP Trust
"I hope the example we are setting, will be followed by those who care about the icons that are connected to their families or the trust that they are mandated to look after."
Dr. Mamphela Ramphele, Chairperson - Archbishop Tutu IP Trust
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