Najib offers condolences on Nelson Mandela’s death

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KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has conveyed his deepest condolences to South African President Jacob Zuma on the death of the country’s freedom-fighting icon Nelson Mandela.

Mandela, South Africa’s first black president and anti-apartheid icon died peacefully at his Johannesburg home on Thursday after a prolonged lung infection.

The prime minister, in his condolence message to Zuma, said the demise of the former president is a great loss, not only to South Africa and the African region, but to the world.

“It is with deep sadness that I learnt of the demise of President Nelson Mandela. The late president Mandela, a statesman of peace was indeed a gallant son and great leader of South Africa. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” he said.

The prime minister said Mandela would be deeply missed in many parts of the world for his influence in the struggle for equality, humanity and reconciliation.

He said Mandela’s strength of character, perseverance and leadership qualities were instrumental in overcoming the challenging times that South Africa had to face during his crusade against the apartheid regime and in the formation of a democratic South African nation.

“On behalf of the government and people of Malaysia, I wish to convey my sincere and deepest condolences to Your Excellency and through you to the government and people of South Africa on this tragic loss.

“Our prayers are with the people of South Africa, particularly the bereaved family, with the hope that they will find strength and solace to overcome their sorrow during this period of grief,” he said. — Bernama