13/02/2026
OFFICIAL FAMILY STATEMENT. FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR DR DIANA FERRUS - ACTIVIST, POET, WRITER, AUTHOR.
It has been formally confirmed that the funeral of Dr Diana Ferrus will be held as a Provincial Funeral on 14 February in Worcester.
While the service will be nationally broadcast, Dr Ferrus was not granted a National Funeral.
This is the final decision made by the President, and it has been communicated to the family accordingly.
As the family, we wish to be clear and respectful:
we were not provided with reasons for this declaration, and we do not have further information beyond what has been officially conveyed to us.
At this time, our priority is not contestation, but honouring Dr Diana Ferrus with dignity, respect, and care, in line with who she was and the legacy she leaves behind.
We therefore ask for understanding as we focus fully on the ceremony and the responsibilities entrusted to us as her family.
We acknowledge that the public—both nationally and internationally—has questions.
Any questions regarding the classification or decision must be directed to the Office of the Presidency.
The relevant contact details are as follows:
• Dumisani Mahlasela
Director: Chancery of Orders, The Presidency
[email protected]
• [email protected]
• Phindile Baleni
Director-General: Office of the President
[email protected]
• [email protected]
As the family of Dr Diana Ferrus, we wish to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has stood with us during this deeply difficult time.
Your messages, letters, presence, and solidarity have carried us.
Dr Ferrus’s legacy belongs to the world—and to South Africa.
We remain committed to protecting that legacy and ensuring she is honoured with the respect she so profoundly earned.
Thank you for your understanding, compassion, and continued support.
Laniëlle Hartzenberg
Niece of Dr Diana Ferrus
Family Spokesperson