The Opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) on Friday paid tribute to Nelson Mandela, former president of South Africa, who died Thursday at age 95.
The NDP, in a statement, said Mandela was “a true world leader” and with his death, “a light has gone out in our worl”.
Here is the full text of the NDP’s statement.
The Leader, Executive Members and Supporters of the New Democratic Party join with the rest of the world in reflecting on the life, death and legacy of Nelson Mandela, Freedom Fighter, Activist, Former President of South Africa and world citizen, who left us yesterday December 5, 2013.
Mandela was an Icon whose legacy will continue to be the subject of many a film, book, political and government study, and publication for years and years to come. He was influential, not only in his home of South Africa but across the world, and across all cultural, racial, religious and social barriers. Mandela was a true world leader, who survived persecution, and led the reconciliation efforts in South Africa, a country torn apart by Apartheid, which many felt could easily have derailed after Mandela’s release from Robben Island in 1990 and inevitable election as that nation’s President.
His inspirational writings and speeches, have been quoted and referenced by other world leaders who have over the last twenty four hours shared some of what they have learnt from his courage, humility, integrity and sheer joy for life. In his later years, Madiba, (his tribal name) became a mentor to many who would journey to his home in South Africa to listen to his wise counsel.
There are no words to describe the loss which his family and the people of his nation must be feeling at this time. We, the people of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines join them in mourning their loss. A light has gone out in our world, but its glow will endure in the lives of those of us who will long try to emulate the grit, resilience, determination, humility, courage, and wisdom embodied by Nelson Mandela. May he Rest In Peace.