Nelson Mandela, an icon for anti-apartheid struggle passes away
The expected has finally come to be true. Nelson Mandela, the icon of South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle died on Dec. 5 at the age of 95. This incident caused millions to start mourning on account of what he did for freedom of men during his astonishing life.
In fact, Mandela was rewarded the Nobel Peace prize as well due to his achievements for his country and humankind.
After having spent nearly three decades in jail, Mandela was elected South Africa’s first black president and soon took his place among greatest heroes in the world history.
The south African icon who had to go through a long battle against a lung infection eventually died at his Johannesburg home in the presence of his family. The news was announced to the nation and the world by an emotional South African President Jacob Zuma, in a live late-night broadcast. Zuma said:
“Our beloved Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, the founding president of our democratic nation, has departed. Our nation has lost its greatest son. Our people have lost a father,” said Zuma, whose own role in the struggle against white rule saw him imprisoned with Mandela on Robben Island. Hundreds of South Africans maintained an impromptu vigil outside the Mandela home in Johannesburg, ululating, waving flags and singing anti-apartheid era songs.
He also announced that Mandela would receive a full state funeral and he ordered flags to remain at half-mast until after the burial. Unofficial government sources have said he could be laid to rest on Dec. 14, though some are calling for his burial to take place on the 16th, a public holiday named Reconciliation Day.
06.12.2013
MEDIA
