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THE HON BILL SHORTEN MP
LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION
MEMBER FOR MARIBYRNONG

THE HON TANYA PLIBERSEK MP
DEPUTY LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION
SHADOW MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
MEMBER FOR SYDNEY 
STATEMENT -  NELSON MANDELA
On behalf of the Federal Opposition, we pay tribute to Nelson Mandela, unarguably one of the greatest global figures of our time.
Today we have lost a light of our world.
In fractious and troubled times, Mandela led his nation out of the dark age of apartheid – not with a violent struggle, but with peace, compassion and a force of moral leadership.
Mandela knew his country could never be healed with violence or vengeance. He suffered so his people could be free.
Mandela was a true leader, a statesman, and the defining symbol of reconciliation.
He achieved perhaps more than any other leader in his pursuit of peace, acceptance and justice.
The slow struggle for reconciliation does not end today – not for South Africa, and not for any of us.
Let today renew our resolve for reconciliation. Mandela was an example to the world – we must live by that example.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, his country, and all who looked to him in hope for a better world.
We are better because of Mandela. May he rest in peace.