South African History Online

Message of condolence from Nelson and Winnie Mandela to the
Mozambican people, Machel family, FRELIMO, and the Mozambican government on the occasion of the death of Samora Machel, October 1986

[Source: Maputo radio broadcast, October 28, 1986; translation from
Portuguese]

We have never in our lives submitted a request to leave South Africa, but we
believe that today we should be physically present there near you. We are both
detained in different jails. We have been prevented from being with you today to
share your grief, to cry with you, to alleviate your sorrow, to tenderly embrace
you. Our grief for the loss of Comrade Samora is so deep that it breaks our
hearts. Throughout the night we shall join you in the vigil. Throughout the day
we shall cry with you for the loss of that powerful soldier, courageous son and
noble statesman.

We must believe that his death will give new strength to your and our
determination to someday be free. For you it will be through victory over the
immoral and lackey bandits. For us it will be a victory over oppression. Our
struggle has always been linked and together we shall emerge victorious.

The world is on your side. It cannot and will not betray you. With the
support of the world and with the legendary determination of the Mozambican
people you can only emerge victorious.

(signed) Nelson Mandela and Winnie Mandela