Hon Speaker, Mr Nelson Diale was a notable veteran of the struggle. From early in his life he experienced police brutality that carried on for many years. Like the other Nelson, he was a big man who took the pain and forgave those who inflicted cruelty on him.
In January 1964, he was arrested, tortured, beaten and sent to Robben Island, where he served an eight-year term. The hardships he suffered only strengthened his resolve to fight and overthrow apartheid.
In Parliament he always stood out as a person of dignity, and when he spoke he did so with authority and humility.
A particular feature of his political life was his readiness to engage with opposition Members of Parliament, MPs, in a constructive and friendly manner. He could always be counted on to take a balanced and considered view - an example to each of us in this NA, as well as to South Africans.
South Africa and Parliament owe a great debt of gratitude to him and to others of his type. They made reconciliation possible and they gave to Parliament the stability to forge our new democracy.
To his family and his loved ones, his friends and his colleagues, we express our deepest condolences. The hon Mr Lekota knew him well and also appreciated his commitment and friendship. May his soul rest in peace. Thank you.