Former South African president Nelson Mandela passed away due to lung cancer at his residence in Houghton, Johannesburg on December 5, 2013. Mandela died at the age of 95 and was surrounded by his family at the time of his death. The announcement of his death was made on TV, by the South African President Jacob Zuma.
The first black president of South Africa spent almost one third of his life as a prisoner of apartheid, but he was determined to win over its defeated guardians in a peaceful way, which inspired the entire world. The leader was known as a global symbol of sacrifice and reconciliation at a time and in a world which is so often torn by division and conflict.
The former boxer and lawyer has been a fighter against apartheid and a seeker of peace with his enemies. Mandela’ death means that the world lost one of the great figures of modern history and will set the platform for the upcoming days of mourning for a leader who managed to project unbelievable grace, resolve and good humor. During the announcement, Zuma said, “We’ve lost our greatest son. Our nation has lost its greatest son. Our people have lost a father”.
The president went on to say that nothing can diminish their sense of a profound and enduring loss.
Photo Credits: Citizen
