STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF FORMER PRESIDENT NELSON MANDELA BY PRINCE MANGOSUTHU BUTHELEZI MP PRESIDENT OF THE INKATHA FREEDOM PARTY FRIDAY, 06 DECEMBER 2013

The grief of a nation is palpable as we receive the news of former President Nelson Mandela's passing. The last few months have been difficult, as we awaited news about Madiba's health and prayed for strength for the Mandela family. We stood in support of Mrs Graa Machel, Nkosi Mandla Mandela, Madiba's daughters and grandchildren, and all his family.

Now, we mourn with them. This is a loss to us all. My sympathy goes to the Mandela family and to those who were closest to this great man. So many knew and loved him, and so many loved him having never even met. There will surely be many tears shed in the coming days in all corners of our country, and across the world.

Memories rise in this painful moment and, once the initial shock subsides, I will put pen to paper to share how I will remember Nelson Mandela. He was a life-long friend, an inspired leader and a man of complex character. He was also a friend of my family and I convey in this my wife's condolences too, to Madiba's loved ones.

After his long journey in the service of the country he loved, may Nelson Mandela now rest in peace. May the Lord comfort us all and help us to uphold the memory of South Africa's most beloved leader.

Issued by the IFP, December 6 2013

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