The bust of former president Nelson Mandela unveiled at Parliament shows how far SA’s democracy has come in a short space of time, President Jacob Zuma has said.

Not many years ago, it would have been unthinkable, because under apartheid, Mandela was considered an enemy of the state.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony and launch of the 20 Years of a Democratic Parliament programme today, Zuma said Parliament would continue to promote Mandela’s legacy.

“By unveiling the statue, Parliament has declared we will continue to walk in Madiba’s footsteps and honour his legacy.”

Zuma also paid tribute to former president FW de Klerk, who was a part of the unveiling ceremony.

“Through him we were able to make a breakthrough to create the conditions for our new democracy.”
-Sapa