Wednesday has seen the mood change from that of celebrating a life well-lived to perhaps the dawn of the reality of facing life without Madiba.(SABC)
SOURCE : Sipho Kekana : SABC
As reality set in that former President, Nelson Mandela was indeed no more, his family has once again expressed gratitude towards the nation for their support during their time grief.
Wednesday has seen the mood change from that of celebrating a life well-lived to perhaps the dawn of the reality of facing life without Madiba as family, dignitaries, celebrities and thousands of members of the public viewed Madiba’s body at the Union Buildings.
“We are humbled that millions of South Africans who loved him, stood by him through his trials and tribulations, supported him as he ascended to power and witnessed the progress of his physical frailty during his last days, can now join us in bidding him farewell,” reads a statement released by the family.
"As the Mandela Family, we take this opportunity today to extend our gratitude to those who honoured Madiba with their presence during the National Memorial Service at FNB Stadium, Johanesburg, yesterday.”
Clouds hung low over Pretoria as tears flowed among some of those who arrived to view the mortal remains at seat of government where Madiba took the Oath of Office in 1994.
"... this nation will pull together and bid farewell in the most dignified and disciplined manner possible that Madiba would have expected of us."
“Through your prayers, reflections, thoughts, cards and flowers, tweets and messages recorded in books of condolence across the country and the world, you have indeed made this an extraordinary week for all of humanity,” reads the statement by Madiba’s family.
Thousands of South Africans braved cold and wet conditions to attend the National Memorial Service at the FNB Stadium on Tuesday, to celebrate a life of one of the greatest leaders the world has ever known.
Mandela’s body will be transported back to the Union Building on Thursday and Friday, before it leaves for Qunu on Saturday.
“It is our conviction that on this last mile, this nation will pull together and bid farewell in the most dignified and disciplined manner possible that Madiba would have expected of us,” the statement read.
The funeral will take place on Sunday.
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