United States, December 7, 2013 (SSNA) — As the public did on that fateful day of December 5, 2013, the SPLM – USA National Secretariat learned with grief, the passing of Mandela, a man of principles, an icon, example of all examples, and merciful. A rare breed in the African continent and indeed the world, Mandela has demonstrated that you can do the unexpected and achieve results with timeless significance and impact. With his resolve and perseverance, he was able to lead South Africa, the rainbow nation, out of apartheid, one of the worse discriminations in human history – essentially changing that country and the continent for good.
Though expected, for he has been battling the illness for sometimes, neither we nor the world, were prepared for his departure because it is unlikely to see a human being of his caliber to ever walk this earth.
To this end, we want to send our heartfelt condolences on behalf of the SPLM-USA and the South Sudanese in the US, to the immediate family of the late Madiba, the South African government, the people of South Africa and indeed the world.
We must know that the best way to remember him and preserve his legacy is to not only praise but practice what he preached and stood for.
Long live his legacy
Signed: SPLM-USA National Secretariat