KINGSTON, Jamaica -- Opposition Leader, Andrew Holness, in expressing sorrow at the passing of Former South African President, Nelson Mandela, hailed Mandela as “an international social and political icon and as a shining light in the struggle for human rights, equality and freedom”.
In reflecting on Mandela’s legacy, Holness said that all Jamaicans should be inspired by the work and dedication of this great national and global leader.
“Nelson 'Madiba' Mandela was one of the greatest leaders to have ever walked the earth. We all are fortunate to have witnessed his selfless leadership and dedication to humanity, to his people and to his country.”
The Opposition Leader said the entire Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) family pauses to recognize his life’s work from the early resistance struggle against apartheid, through his inspiring triumph over imprisonment, to the eventual fall of the oppressive apartheid regime, and finally the magnanimity and humility he displayed in leading process of uniting, bridging and healing the deep divide that existed in South Africa.
Holness said that the magnitude of President Mandela’s contribution is best understood when viewed against the fact that Mandela was incarcerated because of his efforts to bring justice and equality to all South Africans regardless of their colour, creed or social status.
“It is significant to juxtapose this against the fact that this happened at the same time of Jamaica’s Independence in 1961. He also said that Mandela’s ability to transcend bitterness and the depth of wisdom he consistently displayed, have left innumerable lessons for every citizen of this world.
“Mr Mandela’s legacy, on his passing at 95 years of age, is an inspiration to all who fight for the betterment of their people, and for all who believe in change. In the pantheon of global human rights leaders, he will forever be a beacon of hope for the oppressed and an inspiration in the continued fight in all corners of the world, for Equal Rights and Justice," he said.
In reflecting on Mandela’s legacy, Holness said that all Jamaicans should be inspired by the work and dedication of this great national and global leader.
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The Opposition Leader said the entire Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) family pauses to recognize his life’s work from the early resistance struggle against apartheid, through his inspiring triumph over imprisonment, to the eventual fall of the oppressive apartheid regime, and finally the magnanimity and humility he displayed in leading process of uniting, bridging and healing the deep divide that existed in South Africa.
Holness said that the magnitude of President Mandela’s contribution is best understood when viewed against the fact that Mandela was incarcerated because of his efforts to bring justice and equality to all South Africans regardless of their colour, creed or social status.
“It is significant to juxtapose this against the fact that this happened at the same time of Jamaica’s Independence in 1961. He also said that Mandela’s ability to transcend bitterness and the depth of wisdom he consistently displayed, have left innumerable lessons for every citizen of this world.
“Mr Mandela’s legacy, on his passing at 95 years of age, is an inspiration to all who fight for the betterment of their people, and for all who believe in change. In the pantheon of global human rights leaders, he will forever be a beacon of hope for the oppressed and an inspiration in the continued fight in all corners of the world, for Equal Rights and Justice," he said.