The former President of South Africa died at his home in Houghton on Thursday, December 5, just before 9pm.
‘‘My fellow South Africans,” President Jacob Zuma announced last night when addressing the nation.
‘‘Our beloved Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, the founding President of our democratic nation has departed.
‘‘He passed on peacefully in the company of his family around 8.50pm on December 5, 2013.
‘‘He is now resting.
‘‘He is now at peace.
‘‘Our nation has lost its greatest son.
‘‘Our people have lost a father.
‘‘Although we knew that this day would come, nothing can diminish our sense of a profound and enduring loss.’’
Zuma said Mandela will receive a state funeral.
The incumbent president has ordered all flags to fly at half-mast from today till after Mandela’s funeral.
Have your say. What were your reactions when hearing the news of Mandela’s death? How will he be remembered and how will you honour his legacy?
Read Mandela’s biography: https://www.citizen.co.za/benoni-city-times/161089/nelson-mandela-biography/
