ANC Statement Following Memorial Service of Isithwalandwe/Seaparankoe Cde Nelson Mandela

The African National Congress is sincerely grateful to the multitudes of South Africans, Africans and other people of the world who today paid their respects to a courageous and an all embracing leader of the people, Isithwalandwe/Seaparankoe Comrade Nelson Mandela. South Africa, and the continent as a whole, was graced, in an unprecedented manner, by leaders and ordinary people representing more than 100 countries around the globe.

People from all walks of life and different persuasions came together, in a spirit of unity, to give practical expression of the values of peace, humanity and service, characteristic of the father of our nation and icon of our struggle, Comrade Madiba.

While successive calls have been made to honour and respect the legacy of Comrade President Mandela, some amongst the mourners displayed despicable and unbecoming behaviour by repeatedly heckling Comrade President Zuma today. This is a period of mourning. None amongst us should ever use this solemn moment to disrespect any amongst us, whatever their personal views and grievances.

The African National Congress once again calls upon the people of South Africa, who have displayed great fortitude and discipline to date, to isolate unruly elements within our fold and continue to conduct ourselves in a manner befitting the stature and sacrifices made by Former ANC President Nelson Mandela for all of us to have the right to differ in a constructive and disciplined manner.

The African National Congress thus calls upon our people to continue to observe the remaining events in honour of Madiba, until the funeral this Sunday, with the dignity and sombreness these moments deserve.

Statement issued by Jackson Mthembu, ANC national spokesperson, December 10 2013

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