World

Mandela Congratulates Obama after election victory

by Jordan Yerman | November 5, 2008 at 06:34 am

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Nelson Mandela, still the moral leader of South Africa despite his retirement from public life, has offered his congratulations to Barack Obama for his victory in the US election. This was echoed by South African President Kgalema Motlanthe, who succeeded Thabo Mbeki recently.

"Your victory has demonstrated that no person anywhere in the world should not dare to dream of wanting to change the world for a better place," Mandela said in a letter to Obama.

"We note and applaud your commitment to supporting the cause of peace and security around the world. We trust that you will also make it the mission of your presidency to combat the scourge of poverty and disease everywhere.

"We wish you strength and fortitude in the challenging days and years that lie ahead. We are sure you will ultimately achieve your dream of making the United States of America a full partner in a community of nations committed to peace and prosperity for all," said Mandela.

The ruling African National Congress (ANC) said it expected South Africa to maintain its strong relationship of "mutual respect and cooperation" with the US.