Mandela elected first President of South Africa

Nelson Mandela elected President.

The icon of tolerance on the continent and a hope for the struggle. Mandela was elected President of South Africa after his release from decades in prison in the aftermath of the Rivonia Trial.

Madiba had the opportunity to go after all who wronged him and his comrades but he chose peace and forgiveness.

In his words:

“We must therefore act together as a united people, for national reconciliation, for nation building, for the birth of a new world.”

Let there be justice for all.
Let there be peace for all.”

He continues:

“Let there be work, bread, water and salt for all.

Let each know that for each the body, the mind and the soul have been freed to fulfil themselves.

Never, never and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one by another and suffer the indignity of being the skunk of the world.

Let freedom reign.”