Canadian politicians react to death of Nelson Mandela

Mandela’s loss is felt here in Canada, as well – a country he once called his “home away from home.” In 1990, he chose to mark his release from prison by visiting Canada. He was named a Companion to the Order of Canada and later made an honourary Canadian citizen.

Canada celebrates its role in supporting Mandela's mission to bring constitutional democracy to South Africa where, before his successful election in 1994, only apartheid existed.

"With the death of Nelson Mandela, the world has lost one of its great moral leaders and statesmen. Mr. Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years by the former Government of South Africa, for his part in the struggle that would ultimately end the system of apartheid.

"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.

"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.

"Nelson Mandela’s enduring legacy for his country, and the world, is the example he set through his own ‘long walk to freedom.’ With grace and humility, he modelled how peoples can transform their own times and in doing so, their own lives.

"On behalf of the Government of Canada and all Canadians, Laureen and I extend our condolences to Mr. Mandela’s widow, Graça Machel, his entire family and all citizens of South Africa. Canada, a nation that granted Mr. Mandela honorary citizenship in 2001, mourns with you and the entire world today."

It is a rare individual whose reputation for wisdom transcends time. Nelson Mandela, who died today at the age of 95, is one of them. New Democrats join others around the world in mourning the loss of this exceptional man.

Mr. Mandela devoted his life to fighting against injustice and defending, educating and caring for his people. An honourary Canadian citizen, he was a source of inspiration for all – from the most humble and impoverished to the world’s most powerful.

For 50 years, Mr. Mandela fought apartheid and racism. He guided South Africa towards racial equality and democracy, at the risk of his life, and at the price of his freedom. He is rightly considered the father of modern South Africa.

His country’s first black president, and a Nobel Peace Prize winner, Nelson Mandela is an extraordinary example of indomitable courage and faith.

The light that he brought to the world will continue to shine long after him.

“As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.”
– Nelson Mandela, Inauguration speech, May 10, 1994.

“It is with great sorrow that Canadians and people around the world learn of Nelson Mandela’s death. Today we all say a personal farewell to a man whose life has offered hope and inspiration to millions.

“The admiration and accolades Nelson Mandela is receiving from every corner of the world are a testament to his struggles and sacrifice. Truly a citizen of the world, Nelson Mandela’s contribution to world freedom is simply unparalleled, and he will forever occupy a place in the hearts, minds and imaginations of people across the globe.

“On behalf of the Liberal Party of Canada and our Parliamentary Caucus, Sophie and I extend our deepest sympathies to Graça Machel, the entire Mandela family and all South Africans at this very sad time.”

"Mr. Mandela was and is an inspiration to people around the world and will continue to be a model of courage and leadership. He proved time and again that the spirit of a true leader cannot be broken, and that with conviction and unshakeable belief in justice and fairness one can achieve change.

"First Nations saw in Mr. Mandela a kindred spirit, a crusader for Indigenous rights and human rights who believed in reconciliation and the basic dignity and value of every human life. Part of a family of hereditary Chiefs, Mr. Mandela was given the name Madiba by the Thembu people in honour of an 18th century Chief and a clear recognition of the connection among all Indigenous peoples and the tremendous leadership they have brought to the world.

"Driving the change you want to see in the world is a theme that resonates with First Nation peoples across Canada as we advance efforts to give life to our rights. As Indigenous peoples, many First Nations feel a special connection to Mr. Mandela’s lifelong efforts and achievements, and First Nations have honoured him on many occasions."