“Madiba managed to found a nation by seeking that which unites, and he guided it discreetly through the example and inspiration of his words along the road to a democracy that offered hope. With his life Mandela accomplished a great dream of humanity, for his people and for the entire world. His experience, his humanity, dignity, tenderness and ability to compromise with those who opposed him are a model for every individual of every generation. Without violence, but with the example of his wisdom, he was able to mend a society that had been cruelly divided”.
“Nelson Mandela was a gift from South Africa, from Africa, to humanity. In a world disenchanted with rigid ideologies he showed the strength of a man who changes history by following the dream of humanity. I wish to extend my personal condolences to all South Africans for their loss. For every people, nation and individual living with suffering and injustice, the road to a dignified and hopeful future remains illuminated by the life of Nelson Mandela”, Under-Secretary Giro concluded.
