"We at NICRO - the National Institute for Crime prevention and the Reintegration of Offenders - wish to express our deepest sadness at the passing of former president and the father of the nation Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, lovingly known to his people as Tata Madiba.
Each and every day we are constantly inspired by the legacy of this gentle man, a true humanist and promoter of peace, love and unity not only amongst South Africa but across the world.
A man of many profound and seminal teachings, he said that, 'No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background or his religion. People learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.'
At NICRO we strive to live these lessons of forgiveness, peace and reconciliation. We believe in second chances and opening our hearts to the misunderstood. NICRO would like to encourage fellow countrymen and women to continue to emulate his wise words and work together towards a peaceful and safe South Africa. NICRO appeals to those who continue to commit crime and violence to take this moment and reflect. As NICRO regards crime as a threat to democracy and individual rights, we continue to urge for all those that reside in South Africa to lead a crime-free lifestyle. By reducing the levels of crime, we can continue to strengthen the legacy of Tata Madiba
Madiba's teachings leave us with hope that by working together under the umbrella of Ubuntu through forgiveness, love and understanding we can indeed a live in a crime-free South Africa.
Although this day has been anticipated for some time, we are still left in quiet disbelief that this man, we called our own, and is globally acknowledged as the leader of our times, has left us. We seek comfort in the notion that we, the world community, we're alive to witness his courageous life and be inspired to follow in his footsteps.
Our most heartfelt condolences go out to his family at this difficult time."
