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NELSON MANDELA FAMILY STATEMENT

WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2013

JOHANNESBURG

Today the mortal remains of our father and leader of ourpeople, Nelson Mandela, lie in state at the UnionBuildings, Pretoria.

It is indeed at this very seat of government that our father

took the Oath of Office in the presence of thousands of ourpeople and international dignitaries in 1994 to usher in thedawn of peace, freedom and democracy in South Africa.

It is accordingly a fitting tribute that the nation returns himto the seat of government on his way to his final journey tohis resting place at Qunu.

As he lies in peace at the Union Buildings, Madiba wouldbe happy to know he is surrounded by thousands of South

Africans, whom he loved and served - or served with - inthe prosecution of the just struggle for democracy, and inlaying the foundations in 1994 for a non-racial, non-sexist,democratic South Africa.

We are humbled that millions of South Africans who lovedhim, stood by him through his trials and tribulations,supported him as he ascended to power and witnessedthe progress of his physical frailty during his last days, cannow join us in bidding him farewell.

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Under these conditions, it is a source of consolation andstrength for us to have shared Madiba with people of our

country, Africa and the world as we embark on this difficultlast mile to his resting place in Qunu.

Our mothers, Mama Graca Machel and Mama WinnieMandela, are strengthened by the knowledge that as theybegin to prepare to accompany Madiba on his Long Walkto Qunu, South Africa, Africa and the world are at theirside.

It is our conviction that on this last mile, this nation will pulltogether and bid farewell in the most dignified anddisciplined manner possible that Madiba would haveexpected of us.

For more information, contact General TT Matanzima

Cell: 072 234 4049