MATSULU – The premier, Mr David Mabuza described former president, Dr Nelson Mandela as a loyal, humble and dedicated servant of the ANC, who fought and stood for nothing but unity.

Mabuza said even when the county was on the brink of a civil war after the murder of Mr Chris Hani in 1993, Mandela remained calm and continued preaching unity.

“We didn’t understand at the time because our hearts were filled with nothing but hatred, grief and anger over the killing of our comrades. Even though he too was in pain, he remained calm and was the one who encouraged round-table negotiations and unity instead of war.

“When we lost Hani, we said we were done talking, but he addressed us and told

us to continue on our journey to freedom,” said Mabuza.

He was speaking during the provincial prayer session at Matsulu on Sunday, which had scores of mourners from different faith backgrounds in attendance. “What we have seen in him is truly amazing.

“He even took time and visited the widow of the late founder of apartheid, Mr Hendrik Verwoerd and still found it in his heart to forgive all those who had abused him throughout his life, something that doesn’t come easily.

“Madiba was a forgiving leader indeed and spent his time teaching us how to love and forgive. But above all, he taught us that unity was the only key to a better and prosperous country,” continued Mabuza.

He then made a call for unity, saying that it was Mandela’s vision.

“We are all of his children. He united us and therefore, there is no reason for us to start divisions because we will not get anywhere.

“His passing mustn’t leave a divided country, but let us work hard and ensure that we remain as united as ever,” he said.

“We have learnt a lot from him. We call on everyone to take time and reflect on his life.

“It is sad but true that since he is gone we will forever feel empty and cold, but he has left us with hope. He said we had to continue with the struggle and fight for unity.

“We will never leave the Mandela family and the ANC because this is where Madiba left us and expects us to be. Even though we are mourning, let us celebrate his life and hope that our children can learn something from him and our struggle as a country.

“The long walk continues,” he ended.