“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”
Nelson Mandela
Today, people from all walks of life all over the world are mourning the loss of Nelson Mandela, long time champion of the anti-apartheid movement, of human rights in general and former president of South Africa. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends, and to his countrymen and women, who must feel his loss so deeply.
No Peace Without Justice (NPWJ) and the Nonviolent Radical Party, Transnational and Transparty (NRPTT) pay tribute to one of the world’s most visionary leaders, who through his perseverance became an enduring icon in the fight for freedom, equality, justice and human dignity, all core universal values.
The world is worse off today for having lost him, just as we are all enriched for having had him in our lives, however tangentially. Through his commitment to nonviolent dialogue over revenge and hatred, Nelson Mandela will be remembered as one of the most inspiring forces in the pursuit of peace, justice and reconciliation in the face of brutal oppression.
The death of Nelson Mandela is not just a loss for South Africa, but for the world. He leaves an exemplary legacy for people all over the world who are struggling for the promotion and protection of human rights, the rule of law and democracy. African and worldwide leaders must carry on his struggle and live up to his high standards to ensure his legacy stands alive for us, who benefitted from sharing the same planet as him, and for future generations who have been denied that opportunity.
