President Donald Ramotar and the major political parties yesterday expressed condolences on the passing of former President Nelson Mandela and hailed his legacy.
Mandela passed away yesterday at his home in Johannesburg.
Ramotar said: “This loss is not just one for the people of South Africa, but for Africa as a whole, and the world at large. Nelson Mandela was a giant in defence of human rights and for a free and just society, not only for his beloved South Africans, but for the oppressed the world over.
“The world is much poorer after his passing for he was one of the most outstanding statesmen of all time.
“The struggle he led with other distinguished anti-apartheid fighters has entered into the annals of world history as one of the most defining periods in our world.
However, it was not only the struggle, but the manner in which it was conducted which will always remain an example and an inspiration for others working for social and economic justice everywhere.
“He was truly the Father of his Nation, tirelessly devoting his life to serving the people of South Africa with humility and dignity in leadership, and an unwavering commitment to preserving that hard won unity and the pride of liberation.”
A Partnership for National Unity said: “It is with great sorrow that A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) notes the passing of Rolihlahla Nelson Mandela (former President of South Africa and an Icon in the struggle for peace and justice), a leader whose transformative life became a symbol of resistance and triumph over racial segregation and all forms of institutionalized apartheid.
“Nelson Mandela never wavered in his devotion to democracy, equality and learning. Despite terrible provocation, he chose forgiveness instead of hate. His life has been and will continue to be an inspiration to all, who are oppressed and deprived, to all who are opposed to oppression and deprivation around the World.”
The PPP said: “Mandela would be remembered for many things-as a fighter against apartheid rule, as a leader of the South African people, as an international statesman, as a person of strong moral character and tenacity of conviction in a free and democratic South Africa- attributes that sets him apart from others especially during those dark and painful moments of white minority rule.
“But it was his ability to rise above the political fray, reconcile differences and bring together people from all across the political and ethnic divide that defined him as a true and genuine statesman.
“For him no sacrifices were considered too great in his struggle for a free and dignified society.
Not even the suffocating and toxic environment of repressive apartheid rule was enough to silence him or weaken his resolve for an end to the hated system of apartheid rule. “After spending twenty seven years in prison he rose to become the first democratically elected President of South Africa.
He is rightly regarded as the Father of a free democratic and modern South Africa.”
The PPP said that in honour of the life and work of Mandela it will be hosting a commemorative activity on Monday December 9 at 17:00 hours at the Umana Yana, Georgetown.
The Alliance for Change said “most of the world mourns the passing of a truly great leader Nelson Mandela. Few men of his kind have walked this earth.
“A fountain of inspiration to millions across the world, Nelson Mandela became the ultimate symbol of forgiveness and reconciliation.
“After quarter of a century imprisoned by the racist “Apartheid” system in South Africa, Mandela walked free choosing to reject hatred, revenge and bitter memories for the sake of unifying South Africa for the benefit of all.
“With humility and the highest moral integrity he went on to inspire the world. “These are the quality of a great leader.”
