Washington, Dec 6 – U.S. President Barack Obama has ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff until Monday sunset to mourn the death of Nelson Mandela who died aged 95 on Thursday, Xinhua news agency reported.
Flags will be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public and military places nationwide until sunset on Dec 9 as a mark of respect for the memory of Nelson Mandela, a proclamation issued by the White House said.
“Nelson Mandela is no longer with us, he belongs to the ages,” Obama said.
South African President Jacob Zuma announced Mandela’s death in a televised speech on Thursday.
“Madiba’s ‘long walk to freedom’ gave new meaning to courage, character, forgiveness and human dignity,” U.S. Secretary of State John said in a statement.
“There are some truly brave people in this world whom you meet and you’re forever changed for the experience,” Kerry said.
U.S. National Security Advisor Susan Rice said in a statement: “President Nelson Mandela is gone, but his legacy and example will forever endure.”
– Bernama
