"We Have Lost a Global Citizen, a True Father of Democracy"
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten, the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined leaders from around the world in expressing her sadness on behalf of the Government and people of St. Maarten on the death of former South African Leader, Statesman and Civil Rights Icon Nelson Mandela, who died at his home in Johannesburg, South Africa on Thursday.
"Despite his long illness and valiant fight, it is still a sad and profound moment when we learned of the passing of an icon for all of us, the late, and indeed great, Nelson Mandela.
"It is a moment for us to stand still and reflect on the life of a man who stood up for his convictions and what he believed in, despite being imprisoned by the perpetrators of Apartheid. His brave stance was deeply rooted in his vision on reconciliation and his conviction of equality of all mankind and the good thereof for humankind in general.
"On behalf of the people and Government of St. Maarten, I would like to express my profound condolences to the Mandela Family, the People of South Africa and the international community, for it is in fact a global citizen, a true father of democracy, which we have lost. In the native tongue of the late Nelson Mandela, the Xhosa Language, I would like to say 'Enkosi Tata Madiba...Thank you Nelson Mandela," stated the PM.
From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister
