Chinchilla, Latin American presidents offer condolences for Mandela

December 7th, 2013 (ISH & InsideCostaRica.com) Latin American presidents expressed their condolences regarding the passing of former South African President Nelson Mandela, who died on Dec. 5 of natural causes. He was 95.

Mandela became the country’s first black president in 1994 after spending 27 years in prison for leading anti-apartheid activities. He won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.

Below are some of Latin American leaders comments on Mandela’s passing.

Costa Rican President Laura Chinchilla: “His glory will last for ever. Costa Rica honors him.”

Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos: “Today, a great man left us, a symbol of freedom and tolerance that was Nelson Mandela. I invite you to reflect on one of his many inspirational quotes: ‘It’s very easy to break and destroy. The heroes are those who make and build peace.’”

Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff: “The example of this great leader will guide all those who fight for social justice and peace in the world.”

Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto: “On behalf of Mexico, I deeply regret his passing and extend my condolences to the South African people. Mankind has lost a tireless fighter for peace, freedom and equality.”

Argentine President Cristina Fernández de Kircher: “The beloved Nelson Mandela was one of the leaders against the apartheid regime and became a global symbol in the fight against racial discrimination and segregation.”

Peruvian President: Ollanta Humala: “Follow the path left by Nelson Mandela of justice, fraternity and liberty.”

Guatemalan President Otto Pérez Molina: “The political and social work of Nelson Mandela, the man behind the collapse of the unjust apartheid system in South Africa, is a legacy for humanity and an example to follow by free men.”