ABUJA, Nigeria, December 9, 2013/African Press Organization (APO)/ — The ECOWAS Commission has learnt with a deep sense of loss and devastation, the passing on of former South African President Dr. Nelson Mandela.
The Commission notes that Dr. Mandela as a charismatic World leader and international icon of peace and reconciliation guided South Africa from the shackles of apartheid to multi-racial democracy.
In spite of his imprisonment for 27 years for fighting against white minority rule, Dr. Mandela has bequeathed to his country and the world a legacy of forgiveness and an unmatched example in leadership by winning the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 and serving only one term as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999.
In the death of Dr. Mandela on 5th December 2013, at 95, Africa and the world have lost a rare legend, a distinguished role model, great freedom fighter and a man of peace and courage.
On behalf of ECOWAS Institutions, the Commission wishes to commiserate with the Mandela family, the Government and the people of South Africa over this huge loss.
While Mandela’s big shoes would be difficult to fill, the greatest tribute to his memory is to immortalize his legacy and the principles of peace and reconciliation which he cherished, lived and died for.
May God grant him eternal rest and his immediate family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
H.E. Désiré Kadré OUEDRAOGO President of the ECOWAS Commission
Did you find this information helpful? If you did, consider donating.