Johannesburg - The Food and Allied Workers' Union (Fawu) on Friday paid tribute to former president Nelson Mandela for his contribution to South Africa's democracy.
“He was a humble servant of the people, who served the struggle with all the humility and dedication, commitment and passion,” Fawu general secretary Katishi Masemola said in a statement.
“The national giant has ceased to breathe and the global icon is no more with the living but joined the departed.”
He said Mandela had joined other deceased struggle heroes.
“We wish that citizens of the republic, and indeed the whole world community, will accept that Mandela has lived a full age and accomplished a lot in his life,” said Masemola.
“We celebrate a life well-lived. A life of sacrifice and selflessness.”
President Jacob Zuma broke the news of Mandela's death in a televised announcement on Thursday night, saying the Nobel laureate died peacefully at his Houghton home in Johannesburg about 8.50pm.
“He is now resting,” said Zuma.
Flags around the country would be flown at half-mast from Friday until his funeral.
Sapa