Celebs pay tribute to Mandela
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela born in Mvezo, South Africa, on July 18, 1918, died yesterday December 5, 2013, at the age of 95.
Mandela dedicated his life and legacy to same, and therefore it is no surprise that news of his death sent shock waves around the world.
In 1991, Nelson Mandela made his first official visit to Jamaica and his presence has been felt for decades through many generations.
THE WEEKEND STAR went canvassing via social media and sought the views expressed by some of our local officials and celebrities about the impact of the life and death of Nelson Mandela, one of the greatest statesmen the world has ever seen.
STRUGGLE FOR FREEDOM
Portia Simpson Miller: “... Nelson Mandela devoted his life to the ideal that the dignity of the human person was a God-given right that should never be denied or downtrodden. He led and inspired his country’s epic struggle for freedom and democracy and will be remembered with special pride as the first president of democratic South Africa.”
Andrew Holness : “... 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.”
Floyd Green: “I pray that his death will remind us of the power we have within – will see us all recommit to the fight for equal rights – justice #Madiba”.
Usain Bolt: “Today we lost not only a great man; we also lost one of the world’s greatest leaders and fighter of equality. You define inspirational” #Mandela.
Asafa Powell: “More than an ordinary man beyond an icon ... not sure there will/can ever be another like Nelson Mandela R.I.P”
Miss Kitty: “From prisoner to president. A great hero of our time. #NelsonMandela your legacy will live on! #RIP”.
Mavado: “RIP Nelson Mandela real revolutionary true inspiration.”
Singing Melody: “RIP Nelson Mandela – the angels will usher you home, God Bless your soul! We are a better world because you were here!”