As Congress of the People we expressed our deepest sadness to the news of passing of former president Nelson Mandela.

When he was last discharged from hospital, we were aware that such news will come to us eventually. Yet it still comes as a great shock because death has never been something one could ever get used to.

Mandela fought his battle and has played a crucial role in our lives. We will forever be grateful for the sterling job he has done for the people of South Africa. Tata is the man who brought peace and he instilled discipline and believed that we will one day become a Rainbow Nation that can live in harmony.

Let us all honour his memory by continuing where he left of and make sure the values and vision he had for a better South Africa is achieved through unity and respect for one another.

Rest in peace Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, your spirit will always live amongst us. Uyibekile induku ebandla incabha isele nathi, to also make change in the lives of South Africans.

Ulale ngokuthula noxolo Tata Mandela…