Nelson Mandela: World Leaders, Celebrities React to Death of Former South African President
The death of Nelson Mandela prompted world leaders and celebrities to express grief at the passing of the former South African president, but also appreciation for his indelible legacy.
Mandela died today at the age of 95 after battling a number of health issues in recent years.
President Obama: "We will not see the likes of Nelson Mandela again. It falls to us to carry forward the example that he set."
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) December 5, 2013
I will never forget my friend Madiba. pic.twitter.com/UX21ZZG7cg
— Bill Clinton (@billclinton) December 5, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with Graça Machel & the Mandela family. We are all the richer for Madiba's extraordinary life.
— Chelsea Clinton (@ChelseaClinton) December 5, 2013
#UNSG: Let us continue each day to be inspired by @NelsonMandela's lifelong example to keep working for a better and more just world #Madiba
— UN Spokesperson (@UN_Spokesperson) December 5, 2013
Rest in Peace Nelson #Mandela - a true champion of #HumanRights.
— AmnestyInternational (@amnesty) December 5, 2013
A great light has gone out in the world. Nelson Mandela was a hero of our time. I've asked for the flag at No10 to be flown at half mast.
- David Cameron (@David_Cameron) December 5, 2013
Nelson Mandela's long walk to freedom showed an enduring faith in God and respect for human dignity http://t.co/WoDe0qO05A
Every time Melinda and I met Nelson Mandela, we left more inspired than ever. His grace and courage changed the world. This is a sad day.
— Bill Gates (@BillGates) December 5, 2013
- Speaker John Boehner (@SpeakerBoehner) December 5, 2013
In a way, Mandela was both the "George Washington" and "Abraham Lincoln" of his country. We're so fortunate to have lived in his time.
- Senator Harry Reid (@SenatorReid) December 5, 2013
All of Canada mourns with the family of Nelson Mandela and the citizens of South Africa. The world has lost one of its great moral leaders.
- Stephen Harper (@pmharper) December 5, 2013
I want 2give the world a hug I was told Mandeba just passed. Nelson Mandela R.I.P. Time for a well earned sleep.Condolences to his family
One of the great honors of my life was to be invited to Nelson Mandela's home, spend private time and get to know him http://t.co/IfZKtgvlU8
— Oprah Winfrey (@Oprah) December 6, 2013
- Whoopi Goldberg (@WhoopiGoldberg) December 5, 2013
Nelson Mandela has just passed away. Rest In Peace to a true revolutionary and inspiration to the World. He was 95 years old. #RIPMandela
Every time Melinda and I met Nelson Mandela, we left more inspired than ever. His grace and courage changed the world. This is a sad day.
— Bill Gates (@BillGates) December 5, 2013
- #RIPMandela (@RevoltTV) December 5, 2013
My thoughts and love go out to the Mandela family. Rest in Peace Madiba. You will be missed, but your impact on this world will live forever
- Charlize Theron (@CharlizeAfrica) December 5, 2013
Nelson Mandela was an angel walking on this earth. You were one the greatest teachers this world has ever known. We love you and we miss you
- Russell Simmons (@UncleRUSH) December 5, 2013
There is a party in heaven. Angels are celebrating. The one and only #NelsonMandela has arrived. RIP
- Ricky Martin (@ricky_martin) December 5, 2013
1 was convinced Nelson Mandela would NEVER get out of prison. When he did, and became President, I decided right then anything was possible.
"A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination." #RIPNelsonMandela
— Lindsay Lohan (@lindsaylohan) December 5, 2013
- Michael Moore (@MMFlint) December 5, 2013
(Walter Dhladhla/AFP/Getty Images)