Obamas will pay respects to Mandela with trip to South Africa (updated)

Via Politico:

President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama will travel to South Africa next week for Nelson Mandela "memorial events," press secretary Jay Carney said in a statement.

The White House will offer more information as it's available, Carney added.

A large memorial for Mandela is scheduled for Dec. 10 in Johannesburg, while his state funeral will take place on Dec. 15 in his hometown of Qunu.

Update:

George W and Laura Bush have accepted Pres Obama's invitation join him on AF1 to attend the Mandela memorial services next week.

— Jonathan Karl (@jonkarl) December 6, 2013