Jamaica’s leaders have paid tribute to the father of the anti-apartheid movement, Nelson Mandela, who died Thursday night at his home in South Africa at the age of 95.
“The world has lost a courageous fighter”
Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller said: “It is with tremendous and utter sadness that I convey the heartfelt sympathy of the government and people of Jamaica on the loss of the father of the South African nation, Nelson Rolihlahla ‘Madiba’ Mandela.
“The world has lost a courageous fighter, an enlightened leader, and a quintessential statesman. His life will inspire countless generations and his illustrious legacy will endure. He was without a doubt one of the greatest human beings in the history of humanity.
“Nelson Mandela devoted his life to the ideal that the dignity of the human person was a God-given right that should never be denied or downtrodden. He led and inspired his country’s epic struggle for freedom and democracy and will be remembered with special pride as the first president of democratic South Africa.”
“He was one of the greatest leaders to have ever walked the earth”
Former Prime Minister Andrew Holness said: “Nelson ‘Madiba’ Mandela was one of the greatest leaders to have ever walked the earth. We all are fortunate to have witnessed his selfless leadership and dedication to humanity, to his people and to his country.
“The magnitude of President Mandela’s contribution is best understood when viewed against the fact that he was incarcerated because of his efforts to bring justice and equality to all South Africans, regardless of their color, creed or social status. It is significant to juxtapose this against the fact that this happened at the same time of Jamaica’s Independence. Mr. Mandela’s ability to transcend bitterness and the depth of wisdom he consistently displayed, have left innumerable lessons for every citizen of this world.”
“His memory will endure throughout the ages”
Former Prime Minister P.J Patterson said: “The entire human race has lost one of the finest mortal beings who ever walked this planet.
“Nelson Mandela overcame the tyranny of racial oppression to become an apostle for a world where people, irrespective of color or creed, could dwell together in peace and harmony.
“He has finally departed our earthly realm, but his memory will endure throughout the ages.
“We who were privileged to have known Madiba must ensure that his legacy will continue forever to inspire men and women who strive to spread freedom, justice and peace in our single universe.”
“It is difficult to find the words to describe the measure of the man”
Founder of New Nation Coalition, Betty-Ann Blaine said: “We deeply regret the passing of this great world leader and world mentor, and wish to convey to Mr. Mandela’s wife, Graca Machel, his loved ones and the people of South Africa our sincere sorrow as well as our heartfelt thoughts and prayers at this time of loss and grief.
“It is difficult to find the words to adequately describe the measure of the man who has impacted the lives of all humanity.”
“His legacy will remain to inspire others”
Team PNP (People’s National Party) said: “Mandela was the first black South African to hold the office, and the first elected in a fully represented, multiracial election. He was also instrumental in bringing about the end of the apartheid system.
“Mandela will be remembered for his contribution towards the struggle for liberation and a democratic South Africa. His legacy will remain to inspire others.”
Source: JamaicaObserver.com
