Black and white FS residents bid Madiba farewell

Free State  people across racial lines salute the first black president of the democratic South Africa

Free State ANC chairperson and premier Ace Magashule

We are now halfway through the 10 days of mourning the late former state president Nelson Mandela’s departure, and although we have come to accept this, the Free State, and indeed South Africa as a whole is still in shock that he is no more.

He was a selfless leader who taught us that leadership is about collective effort, and not about the individual. He taught us the true meaning of reconciliation, but most significantly, he taught us the importance of a high work ethic and punctuality. I remember, vividly, how he once called a meeting, abruptly, at 4am and all ANC leaders had to be on time.

It was indeed an honour to have served under him. He was the undiminishing light that showed the way and the Baobab tree that provided shelter. Although I will miss this great Seaparankoe, I am comforted by the unwavering belief that his spirit will live on. He now rests knowing that his great nation is left in capable hands, and although there will always be challenges along the way, we will strive to champion the ideals which he died upholding.

Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality deputy mayor, Connie Rampai

The metro expresses its sincere condolences to the Mandela family. Madiba was a champion of the oppressed, a person who dedicated his life to the liberation of his people. Mandela fought against colonialism and the apartheid government. He took the issues of women’s emancipation into consideration and created structures to improve the socio-economic conditions of our people. Because of this great man, we are able to fight the scourge of HIV/AIDS, the killing of our women and children and we are able to overcome children and women abuse. Mandela was well-known for championing the cause of women and children.

Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality Speaker, Mxolisi Siyonzana

Mandela wanted the world to know that he was not without flaws. He maintained his moral values and political beliefs. He led with dignity and never sold the revolution to the highest bidder. He was against white domination as well as black domination. This was a man who cherished the ideals of equality. We hope today that this council leads in line with the values Mandela lived by. Go well Tata, the veterans you fought side by side with are waiting to welcome you in heaven.

Free State ANCWL Chairperson, Sisi Ntombela

Since the start of the mourning period people from all walks of life have shown their support for Madiba. To the entire family of Mandela, we extend our heartfelt condolences. He was as much yours as he was ours, probably his dedication to the ANC family robbed you of a father.

Vuyisile Nyakeng (32)

Mandela worked for our people. Yes, he has died and we now have to take the baton and move forward. I hope the current generation of leaders will follow his example. Our country is going to struggle to cope with his death. He did not believe in selfishness and greed, he believed in equality. Mandela thought about others before himself and that is something most leaders today fail to do.

Rony Rahul (31)

Nelson Mandela brought freedom to South Africa. He taught us about love, peace and hope and was loved by all people of all cultures and religions. He belonged to the world and as Indians we are able to come to this country to seek greener pastures because of him. I have been living in SA for three years now. I did not know him before and only starting learning about him this year. I wanted to know who this great man was.

Lehlohonolo Sekese (33)

I felt sad after learning of the death of Mandela. I am free because of him. We cannot deny it that we are free because of him. We used to live in shacks but now we have houses, water taps in our yards and we are able to send our children to school for free. We had no ID’s and jobs during apartheid; life was very difficult. Now our children are able to go to school with the children of the same white people who oppressed us. What we need to do now is continue Madiba’s legacy.