Mr Speaker, Deputy President, Members of Parliament, there is no doubt about the appropriateness of paying tribute to the honourable Nelson Mandela, a man who contributed well and wisely to the welfare of humanity. But we need to be very careful that the institution of a Mandela Day does not trivialise the man and his extraordinary legacy.
We also need to take into account Madiba's views. He has often said that he does not want to be placed on a pedestal and regarded as a saint. Therefore, we owe it to him to celebrate him in ways that replicate his courage, his humility, his intellect, his willingness to sacrifice, his capacity to forgive and his wisdom in acknowledging the humanity of others.
Madiba has dedicated much of his time to the advancement and upliftment of all South Africans. Therefore, celebrating such a day must not be merely about saying to our children that Nelson Mandela was a great South African who led us to greater heights, but also about saying to our children that, just like Nelson Mandela, they too can be great South Africans. I thank you. [Applause.]