CA Yunus mourns death of former German parliament president Rita Süssmuth
Rita Süssmuth was a courageous and charismatic champion of equality and social cohesion, the chief adviser said.
Chief Adviser of the interim government Professor Muhammad Yunus has expressed profound shock and sorrow at the death of Professor Dr Rita Süssmuth, former federal minister for women and former president of the German parliament.
"It is with profound sadness that I learned of the passing of my friend, Professor Dr Rita Süssmuth. I extend my deepest condolences to her family and loved ones," he said in a condolence message sent recently to President of the German Bundestag Julia Klöckner, which was released today (9 February) by the Chief Adviser's Press Wing.
Prof Yunus said Rita Süssmuth was a courageous and charismatic champion of equality and social cohesion.
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"Over the many decades that I had the privilege of knowing her, she played a decisive role in shaping public discourse in Germany, advocating with clarity and conviction for the rights of women and the wellbeing of families," he added.
As federal minister, Rita Süssmuth addressed the then-emerging challenge of HIV/AIDS with foresight and integrity, placing education above stigmatisation and grounding political action in humanity and scientific evidence, the chief adviser said, adding, "Until recently, she stood firmly for mutual respect and constructive dialogue."
As chair and later honorary president of the Advisory Board of the German Postcode Lottery, she worked tirelessly to strengthen civic engagement, foster social development and cohesion, and promote the protection of the planet, Prof Yunus said.
"I mourn the loss of a distinguished stateswoman and decision-maker, a tireless advocate and a source of encouragement to many. Her service and achievements will be enduringly remembered," he added.
