Today, 18th July 2018, would have been his 100th birthday. We remember the father of South Africa as a champion for human rights, dignity and freedom. Imagine the impact we could have if everyone followed his example, and tried to make a difference in the lives of others.
For those who don't know who Nelson Mandela is/was, you must be newly landed on earth from another planet.
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela (from 18 July 1918 – 5 December 2013) was a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, political leader, and philanthropist who served as the President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. He was the country's first black head of state and the first elected in a fully representative democratic election. His government focused on dismantling the legacy of apartheid by tackling institutionalized racism and fostering racial reconcilliation.
Mandela served 27 years in prison, split between Robben Island, Poslsmoor Prisob abd Victor Verster Prison. Amid growing domestic and international pressure, and with fears of a racial civil war, President FW de Klerk released him in 1990. Mandela and de Klerk led efforts to negotiate an end to apartheid, which resulted in the first ever multiracial election in SA in which Mandela led the ANC to victory and became President.
Mandela was a controversial figure for much of his life. Although critics on the right denounced him as a communist terrorist and those on the radical left, deemed him too eager to negotiate and reconcile with apartheid's supporters, he gained international acclaim for his activism. Widely regarded as an icon of democracy and social justice, he received hundreds of honors—including the Nobel Peace Prize —and became the subject of a cult personality. He is held in deep respect within South Africa, where he is often referred to by his Xhosa clan name: Madiba, and described as the "Father of the Nation".
Social media, radio stations, national television is emblazoned with the Legacy of Nelson Mandela. We hope and pray that this day will encourage those who continue to work towards peace and reconciliation in our country.
HAPPY WEDNESDAY TO YOU ALL !
our 45th president could have learned much from this man... oh that he knew what Mandela knew
ReplyDeleteIt still astonishes me, all those years in prison, he could have come out bitter and enraged, and instead he forgave.
ReplyDeleteThe world is richer for his prescence and sadder for his passing. How I wish we could clone him. World wide.
ReplyDeleteIf only more people were like him
ReplyDeleteHe turned out to be a great man, I only wish the following presidents had a little of Mandela in them!! I remember him so well when he walked out on the field in the No 6 rugby jersey whe we won the Rugby World Cup, wow. Take care Diane
ReplyDeleteThank you for reminding us of one of the giants of twentieth century - of all human history for that matter. When you contrast Mandela with the present occupant of the White House the difference is staggering.
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