Statement from the Mayor of eThekwini Municipality on the passing away of Former President Nelson Mandela.

As the people of eThekwini, we send our most sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family of our stalwart, former President Nelson Rholihlahla Mandela who was called to rest on Thursday, 5 December 2013 at 8:50pm at his home in Johannesburg.

We have a special relationship with Madiba. On 27 April 1994, Tata cast his vote in Ohlange High (Inanda); the home of the founding President of the African National Congress, Dr JL Dube. This was a very significant gesture to us in eThekwini, making our beloved Inanda, the birthplace of democracy.

On 16 April 1999, Madiba was honoured with the Freedom of the City of Durban.

Madiba is the embodiment of peace, love and democracy whose life has inspired generations throughout the world.

We will continue to walk on his footsteps in promoting and building a truly non-racial, non-sexist and prosperous society.

Lala ngoxolo Tata. Sizohlala sikukhumbula njalo.