Media Statement: President Mbeki's Statement on the Death of the Director General of the World Health Organisation, May 22, 2006

On the behalf of the people and Government of the Republic of South Africa, I would like to express our deepest condolences on the sudden death of the Director General of the World Health Organisation, Dr Lee Jong-wook.

Dr Lee passed away this morning just before the commencement of the 59th Session of the World Health Assembly (WHA), which started in Geneva, Switzerland today.

The unfortunate incident of the death of a Director General just before the official opening of WHA has never happened in the 59-year history of this most important international health forum. In his capacity as Director General, Dr Lee would have been at the centre of the WHA processes, facilitating the discussions aimed at promoting good health and effective management of diseases across the world.

He was a humble person who had the interest of health in Africa at heart. He visited South Africa soon after his appointment as Director General in 2003 to consult on health issues on our continent.

Our condolences go to his family and staff of the World Health Organisation. Our Minister of Health, Dr Manto Tshabalala-Msimang, who is leading the South African delegation which is currently attending the WHA will further convey our condolences to the WHA which has been shuttered by this terrible loss.

Ends

Issued by The Presidency
Union Buildings
Tshwane

For more information, please contact: Mukoni Ratshitanga on (012) 300 5436/ 082 300 3447