President Jacob Zuma said: "Our nation has lost its
greatest son. Our people have lost a father.
The Queen said she is "deeply saddened by Mandela's
death".
President Obama
said: "I am one of the countless millions who drew inspiration from Nelson
Mandela's life. My very first political action, the first thing I ever did that
involved an issue or a policy or politics, was a protest against apartheid. I
studied his words and his writings. The day that he was released from prison
gave me a sense of what human beings can do when they're guided by their hopes
and not by their fears. And like so many around the globe, I cannot fully
imagine my own life without the example that Nelson Mandela set, and so long as
I live I will do what I can to learn from him.
"To Graça
Machel and his family, Michelle and I extend our deepest sympathy and gratitude
for sharing this extraordinary man with us. His life's work meant long days
away from those who loved him the most. And I only hope that the time spent
with him these last few weeks brought peace and comfort to his family"
"For now,
let us pause and give thanks for the fact that Nelson Mandela lived - a man who
took history in his hands, and bent the arc of the moral universe toward
justice. May God bless his memory and keep him in peace."
Prince
William and the Duchess of Cambridge, who attended the Royal premiere of the new Nelson Mandela film, Long
Walk To Freedom, in London this evening, is quoted by the BBC as saying:
"It is extremely sad and tragic news."
UK
Labour Leader Ed Miliband Tweeted: "Deep condolences to Graca Machel, his family and friends and to
all the people of South Africa. The world has lost the global hero of our age.
Nelson Mandela showed us the true meaning of courage, hope, and
reconciliation."
UN
Secretary General Ban Ki Moon said: "Only because of such a great man like Nelson Mandela is it
possible that particular people in Africa and elsewhere are able to enjoy
freedom and human dignity. We have to learn the wisdom and determinations and
commitment of Mr Mandela to make this world better for all."
Former
US President Bill Clinton said: "History will remember Nelson Mandela as
a champion for human dignity and freedom, for peace and reconciliation."
F.W.
De Klerk, former South African President, said: "I think Nelson Mandela's legacy is
'don't be bitter about the past - take the hands also of your former enemies'.
Peace is the best way forward and in order to have lasting peace you need to
have reconsideration, there needs to be also forgiveness. I liked him and I
immediately felt that this is truly a man of greatness."
Israeli
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: "He was the father of his people, a man
of vision, a freedom fighter who rejected violence."
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