Nelson Mandela makes appearance as lawmakers honor him

[Better Believe It]

Mandela makes appearance as lawmakers honor him
February 11, 2010

CNN) -- Former South African freedom fighter-turned-president Nelson Mandela made a rare public appearance Thursday as the nation's parliament met to honor him on the 20th anniversary of his release from prison.

"President Mandela united this country behind the goal of a nonsexist, nonracial democratic and prosperous South Africa," President Jacob Zuma told lawmakers.

Mandela, 91, is known in the country as Madiba, his clan name. He and his wife, Graca Machel, were present to hear Zuma speak. His former wife, Winnie Mandela, also attended.

"We should reflect on how far we have traveled as a country," Zuma said. "Honorable members, we recall the words of Madiba on his release when he said, 'I stand before you not as a prophet, but as a humble servant of you, the people. Your tireless and heroic sacrifices have made it possible for me to be here today. I therefore place the remaining years of my life in your hands.'

"These words inspire us not to rest until we achieve the ideals of a society free of poverty and deprivation. In the two decades since the release of Madiba, our country has changed fundamentally."



Nelson Mandela and his wife, Graca Machel, made a rare appearance Thursday as the nation's parliament honored him.

Read the full article at:

http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/africa/02/11/south.africa.mandela/