Welsh politicians have paid tribute to apartheid fighter and former South African president Nelson Mandela, who died last night aged 95 in Johannesburg.
First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones said: “Nelson Mandela can be truly described as one of the greatest figures of modern times. Not many people can claim to have changed the history of their nation for the better, by bringing together what was then a bitterly divided society.
“His message of forgiveness, of reconciliation for the sake of a better future is one all of us should follow. He described himself as an ordinary man, but he represented the best of humankind and he will be greatly missed.
“In Wales, we had a proud record of opposing apartheid. I remember in the 1980s when I was a student, taking part in the anti-apartheid protests whilst all over the country schools, councils, universities, the Welsh Rugby Union and others all played their small part in opposing such an inhuman regime. When President Mandela visited Wales in 1998, he thanked the Welsh people for their support – it was a moment we will never forget.
“But for all that we did, we didn’t have to confront apartheid on a daily basis. We didn’t have to run the risk of imprisonment or worse. Nelson Mandela faced his struggle with dignity and without bitterness and that is why he will be remembered for generations to come.”
As a mark of respect the National Assembly of Wales will fly its flags at half-mast today and on the day of the funeral.
Presiding Officer Rosemary Butler said: “These days we often apply the description great to people but Nelson Mandela truly was a great human being.
“But what he did after his release from prison marks him out as a significant figure in world history.
“He worked closely with his former oppressors to end apartheid and to ensure the transition from white-minority rule to free multi-racial elections in South Africa.
“Once elected President, he put national reconciliation at the top of his agenda and ensured the broadest coalition in his cabinet, making F W De Klerk Deputy President.
“He ensured there was no drive to punish white Afrikaners by removing them from government jobs or implementing other punitive measures.
“This approach rightly won praise from around the world and although there was violence during the transition period, there is no doubt that Nelson Mandela’s leadership stopped it from escalating into something more deadly.
“That was the greatness of the man. Despite everything he as an individual, and black South Africans as a people, went through during the apartheid years, he was able to work with those oppressors in order to achieve a free and democratic South Africa for all.
“The world has been left a much better place by his contribution.”
Leader of the Welsh Conservatives Andrew RT Davies AM, said: “Nelson Mandela was – and always be – a global inspiration.
“His was a life that has defined what it means to be truly great.
“His tremendous will, incredible humility, and resolute commitment to democracy, justice and freedom have transformed history and changed the world.
“More than an international icon, more than an enduring legacy; Nelson Mandela’s name and actions will forever be etched in our history.
“His spirit, integrity and humility have inspired me, as I know they have many more across Wales – and all over the world.”
Sad that Nelson Mandela has passed away. But grateful for all he did for freedom and peace. Privileged to meet him when he visited Cardiff.
— Wayne David MP (@WayneDavidMP) December 5, 2013
Nelson Mandella was a great man and will be sadly missed. Never was a politician so revered as Mandella.
— Jeff Cuthbert (@JeffCuthbert) December 6, 2013
Mr Mandela visited Wales in 1998 and was awarded the Freedom of Cardiff.
Nelson Mandela was one of those rare individuals who, without exception, put the common good above personal ambition. Whilst in prison he several times rejected better conditions that were offered in return for him forsaking his principles. That alone is remarkable but he coupled this with another rare trait, the willingness to seek reconciliation with those who maltreated him and millions of others solely on the basis of the colour of their skin. He became president of his country and a lesser man would have sought revenge on his oppressors; he never did. We live in an age when adjectives such as great, incredible and hero are debased, they are used to describe sports people and rock stars. Mandela was truly a hero and the world will be a poorer place on his passing.
Here, Here! ^^^