JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – 22 April 2009: South Africas first democratically elected President Mr Nelson Mandela arriving at the Transvaal Automobile Club in Houghton, Johannesburg, where he cast his ballot for South Africa’s 2009 General Election.
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – 22 April 2009: South Africas first democratically elected President Mr Nelson Mandela arriving at the Transvaal Automobile Club in Houghton, Johannesburg, where he cast his ballot for South Africa’s 2009 General Election.
Four years ago today, South Africa lost its greatest citizen. Nelson Mandela’s fight against the apartheid regime is revered as one of the greatest triumphs in history, and many world leaders were quick to say so back in 2013.
His refusal to give in – based on the foundations of courage, iron will, and a belief that all peoples should be treated equally regardless of skin colour – transformed the political and social landscape of this country forever.
We remember Madiba not with a heavy heart because he is gone. But with smiles on our faces, because of his legacy. His life lessons and inspirational quotes are perhaps more important in SA than they have been since he left office.
We miss you, Tata. As does the rest of the world.
How the world paid tribute to Nelson Mandela:
Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny
“The name Mandela stirred our conscience and our hearts. It became synonymous with the pursuit of dignity and freedom across the globe.”
“We ask that his spirit continues to inspire, guide and enlighten us as we strive to bring freedom and dignity to the family of man, our brothers and sisters, across the world.”
Ban Ki-Moon, former UN Secretary General.
“Mandela was a giant for justice and a down-to-earth human inspiration. Many around the world were greatly influenced by his selfless struggle for human dignity, equality and freedom. He touched our lives in deeply personal ways.”
Former British Prime Minister, David Cameron:
A great light has gone out in the world. Nelson Mandela was a hero of our time. I’ve asked for the flag at No10 to be flown at half mast.
— David Cameron (@David_Cameron) December 5, 2013
Cuban leader Raul Castro:
“Mandela will not go down in history for the 27 years he spent behind bars… but because he was able to free his soul from the poison that such unjust punishment can cause.”
The 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama:
“Over 30 years ago, I learned of Nelson Mandela and the struggles taking place in this beautiful land – it stirred something in me. It woke me up to my responsibilities, and sent me on an improbable journey. Although I fall short of Madiba’s example, he makes me want to be a better man. It took the sacrficices of countless known and unknown people to see the dawn of a new day here.”
Brazil’s President Dilma Rousseff:
“His fight went way beyond his national border and inspired men and women, young people and adults to fight for independence and social justice.”
India’s Prime Minister Pranab Mukherjee:
“He was the last of the giants who led the world’s struggles against colonialism and his struggle held special significance for us.”
Ugandan Leader Amama Mbabazi:
Nelson Madiba Mandela was the hero for all freedom loving people. He will always be remembered for what he gave the world – human dignity.
— Amama Mbabazi (@AmamaMbabazi) December 5, 2013
Japan’s Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe:
“Mandela was a great leader who fought with a strong will to eliminate apartheid and achieved a great deal by putting national reconciliation at the centre of his nation-building”.
Former Labour Party leader, Ed Milliband:
“Nelson Mandela taught people across the globe the true meaning of courage, strength, hope and reconciliation. From campaigner to prisoner to president to global hero, Nelson Mandela will always be remembered for his dignity, integrity and his values of equality and justice.”
Rwandan President Paul Kagame:
Madiba- President (1st,post-apartheid SA) passes on-but what is certain he will continue to live in the hearts of many of us # rest in peace
— Paul Kagame (@PaulKagame) December 5, 2013
The 42nd President of the United States, Bill Clinton:
“Today the world has lost one of its most important leaders and one of its finest human beings. History will remember Nelson Mandela as a champion for human dignity and freedom, for peace and reconciliation.”
