South African Government honoured the late American civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr and UN Secretary General Kofi Annan with the highest civilian award for their contributions to democracy. King and Annan were among 12 prominent personalities from across the world who were bestowed with the 'Order of the Supreme Companions of Oliver Tambo' by President Thabo Mbeki”. Director in the Presidency Frank Chikane said: "Normally the Tambo award is given to personalities associated with the Government, but King and Annan are exceptions. They  were chosen for their outstanding contributions to uphold equality, liberty and democracy."   “The award, named after anti-apartheid hero Oliver Tambo, was presented today June 16 at the Union Building in Pretoria