JOHANNESBURG – Zille joined a band of mourners from across the world after President Jacob Zuma announced the death of Nelson Mandela on Thursday evening December 5.
Zille expressed her feelings, saying, “It is with deep and profound sadness that we say: Lala ngoxolo Tata. Asoze sikulibale (Rest in peace Tata, we will never forget you).
“Our deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers are with Madiba’s wife, Graca, his former wife, Winnie, his daughters Makaziwe, Zenani and Zindziswa, his grandchildren and his great grandchildren.”
Along with many other South Africans, Zille wished the family would find the strength to overcome the pain of this great loss. She said, “May the entire Mandela family be accorded the respect they deserve at this time.”
According to the DA leader, “We all belong to the South African family – and we owe that sense of belonging to Madiba. That is his legacy. It is why there is an unparalleled outpouring of national grief at his passing. It is commensurate with the contribution he made to our country.”
Gauteng Premier Candidate Mmusi Maimane also joined a number of South Africans who gathered at Mandela’s Houghton home to honour the former statesman.
Mandela will mostly be remembered as a leader who spearheaded talks which brought resulted as an end to apartheid. Zille said, “Through his humility, moral conviction and bold leadership, Madiba gave us a gift for which we, and successive generations will be forever grateful.
“He gave us his vision of a free and inclusive South Africa and the unwavering belief that such a society could be achieved in his lifetime.”
She urged South Africans to join hands as the country mourned Madiba’s passing and celebrate his life.
