Mr. Speaker, Walter Sisulu, a leading figure in the African National Congress, and a comrade of Nelson Mandela, has died at the age of 90.
Despite threats and mistreatment, Walter Sisulu devoted his life to the freedom and democracy of the South African people. Apartheid did not prevent Sisulu from educating himself to such an extent that Colin Powell respectfully called him “the wise man behind the statesman”.
Not one for vengeance, he played an outstanding role in the difficult negotiations that led to the end of apartheid, peaceful transition and national reconciliation.
We have lost a great man. “Sisulu stood head and shoulders above all of us in South Africa,” said Nelson Mandela. “He was a great force for wisdom and liberty,” added South African President Mbeki.
Walter Sisulu has left us, but his achievement remains. South Africa is at peace with its neighbours and within itself.
Adding its voice to so many others in the world, the Bloc Quebecois offers its condolences to all the people of South Africa.