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My deepest condolences to Mr Mandela’s family, friends and colleagues.
 
Today my heart aches – my friend, comrade and mentor has passed on and I will miss him forever. But I am also relieved that his suffering has come to an end, and I know that his legacy will live on forever.
 
I watched this morning as tributes to Madiba poured in from all over the world – tributes that were heartfelt and meaningful, but also tributes that were clearly prepared in advance of a day we all knew was coming. I had nothing prepared, because each time I tried to write something in advance of the death of my friend, my heart would not allow me to continue.
 
But now I have no choice – his physical presence has indeed left us. But his legacy and indomitable spirit live on forever in my heart, the hearts of a nation and, indeed, the hearts of a world.
 
So this is my tribute – not the first one, but a heartfelt one, one that is written in the moment.
 
When I arrived on Robben Island, Comrade Nelson took the time to write me a personal note welcoming me and introducing me to our policies and beliefs. I will always be inspired by his kindness and care in welcoming the young firebrand to the ranks of the island prisoners.
 
He was kind enough to write in his autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom, that he had heard of my bravery – but it is his bravery that I will always remember and salute. And I will continue to uphold his ideals.
 
I walked a long road with Comrade Mandela. As he leaves on this final journey, I will continue to carry in my heart his wishes for freedom, unity and prosperity for all South Africans.
 
Tsamaya hantle, ntate Nelson Mandela.