As an immigrant to South Africa in 1970, and educated in the sub tropics of Africa, I have watched bewildering political scenarios emerge throughout Africa until today.
Of all the leaders in Africa, one person stands out as unique in the suppression of conflict, and this is the late Nelson Mandela.
When I look at his career, and the bitterness he could have felt, but did not express in his leadership, one event stands out to me.
Though little has been said of the role he must have played after the assassination of Chris Hani, I believe his persistent diplomacy held back what could have been a potentially devastating civil war.
No leader in Africa has ever been so recognised by the world for his dedication to peaceful, though hurtful, reconciliation of the races in Southern Africa, as Nelson Mandela.
For this, eternal recognition in history is due from the people of all groups in South Africa.
At the time of his release from prison I was visiting the USA.
I was interviewed by a private radio station in the east.
I was asked what message I would like to give this man, at that time referred to as “a president in waiting”.
I said, I would ask him to never forget that South Africa consisted of significant and more widely varied ethnic, tribal, racial, and mixed groups, than any country in the world.
Each had its own culture, identity, language, and traditions.
No wonder the expression “A Rainbow Nation” had its origin during Mandela’s early presidency.
Nelson Mandela deserves all the tributes he receives. He certainly fulfilled the message I recorded, and for which all South African owe endless gratitude that, to date, his legacy has continued.
