The patriotic pearl of SA has fallen

That there is no more Winnie Mandela in this world is absolutely sad. The news of her demise has saddened a multitude of hearts.

She has gone and all over the country there is a feeling of being left desolate and forlorn. The patriotic pearl has fallen from the nation’s necklace of freedom fighter leaders.

She was cherished not only as a better half of Nelson Mandela but as a stalwart warrior against the apartheid regime.

She contributed enormously to emancipating the nation from the iron fist of apartheid rule with zeal, fervour and enthusiasm.

Her dedication and devotion deserve credit, first as a freedom fighter and later as a political figure.

As a result of her remarkable service to the nation and people, her story will be engraved on the pages of history in golden letters. After being sworn in as deputy minister of arts, culture, science and technology in August 1994, she visited Lenasia, south of Johannesburg. When I met her at the civic centre there, I noticed that she had complete confidence that she would do the portfolio allocated to her justice. She mingled with the community in a friendly manner.

Now she is departed from this world but she will be remembered as long as the moon and stars remain in orbit. In this moment of mourning and grief, we share our sincere sympathy with everyone. Hanif A. Patel Eklera-Bhanondra, Gujarat Province of India