The world has lost one of its great moral leaders and statesmen, said Prime Minister Stephen Harper of Nelson Mandela. Addressing the House of Commons, Harper called Mandela the most powerful symbol in the world for the struggle and success against racial discrimination.
“Despite his long years of captivity, Mr. Mandela left prison with a heart closed to calls for a settling of scores. Instead, he was filled by a longing for truth and reconciliation, and for an understanding between all peoples,” Harper said.
“He demonstrated that the only path forward for the nation was to reject the appeal of bitterness. His forbearance was legendary: his magnanimity spared all South Africans incalculable suffering.”
Harper’s office says the prime minister will travel to South Africa for Mandela’s funeral.
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