| In the presence of greatness: Mandela takes his place in Parliament Square. |
| Wednesday, 29 August 2007 |
David was a guest of honour at the unveiling of a new statue of Nelson Mandela in Parliament Square.
At the event The Prime Minister unveiled the statue saying:
“He is the most inspiring and greatest leader of our generation. From this day forward, this statue will stand here, in sight of this ancient forum of democracy to commemorate and celebrate for the ages triumph in the greatest of causes.
"This statue is a beacon of hope."
The nine-foot statue, designed by the late Ian Walters, stands closer to the ground than any of the other residents of Parliament Square, symbolising Mandela's status as a man of the people.
Nelson Mandela said:
“Though this statue is of one man, it should in actual fact symbolise all those who have resisted oppression, especially in my country. The history of the struggle in South Africa is rich with the story of heroes and heroines; some of them leaders, some of them followers: all of them deserve to be remembered."
David commented on the day:
“Mandela should stand as a role model for generations to come. His message of reconciliation despite past wrongs, has as much a role to play on the streets of Britain today, as it did in post-Apartheid South Africa.”
Nelson Mandela has promised to return to London next year to celebrate his 90th birthday with a concert in support of his efforts to combat HIV/Aids.
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