Source: The Presidency
Title: J Zuma: Birthday message to Nelson Mandela
DEPUTY PRESIDENT JACOB ZUMA'S BIRTHDAY MESSAGE TO FORMER PRESIDENT NELSON MANDELA ON HIS 85th BIRTHDAY, 18 July 2003
Tata, I am indeed very honoured to join millions of South Africans and many millions more around the continent and world to celebrate this important birthday with you.
One does not always get the opportunity to express the privilege and joy we feel to have been blessed with a person of your stature, calibre and nature.
Please accept our warmest wishes and sincerest congratulations on your 85th birthday.
Today marks an important milestone in your life, and therefore in the lives of every South African, and we look back with pride at your illustrious life.
From a young boy in rural Transkei, you become a student, a lawyer and broke new ground with OR Tambo in establishing the very first black law firm; you were a freedom fighter, the volunteer-in chief, commander of MK, and went through all phases of struggle including long-term imprisonment. Throughout this you inspired countless freedom fighters throughout the world. Your statement from the dock displayed the ultimate sacrifice that you were prepared to die for the freedom of your people.
The world has witnessed the efforts you and your peers have put into the liberation of our people in the early days of the struggle. Your tenacity, wisdom and resolve saw you put your life on the sacrificial altar of freedom, dignity and peace.
From Robben Island, your existence and unwavering commitment to a better life for all South Africans continued to inspire patriots for more than two decades, like a flame refusing to be blown out by strong winds.
As the first president of our new society, you have elevated our country to unprecedented global status. And set the world on a whole new course. When the time came for you to rest in 1999, you sacrificed your time again, and have carried on working to improve the lives of the poor. Up to this very day you continue to touch the lives of countless others, especially our children who will inherit the legacy you have built.
You continue to be one of the greatest leaders of our movement, whose ongoing advice, inspiration and leadership we treasure.
In celebrating your birthday, we honour your life and thank you for all you continue to do in working for a better country, continent and world. Happy birthday, Madiba. May you be blessed with many more.
Issued by The Presidency
18 July 2003
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