The long wait for freedom
2008-08-28
Lise Beyers
A FRAIL Nelson Mandela returned to the sight of his release from prison last week, to attend the unveiling of a magnificent bronze statue to commemorate his long walk to freedom. The 4m high statue, weighing 490kg, which will now be known as the ‘Long walk to freedom’ statue, was unveiled by the women in his life, which include his current wife, Graca Machel, former wife, Winnie Mandela, daughters and other female political figures. During this unveiling, the heavens opened, causing rain to bucket down on the parade. But this only enhanced the festivities, as according to African culture, rain is a blessing during celebrations. Eighteen and a half years ago, Nelson Mandela walked out of the gates of the then Victor Verster prison, where he spent 18 months of his 27 years of incarceration. Thursday’s statue unveiling had both strong contrasts, as well as resemblances to the big day in February 1990, when a much younger and fitter Madiba walked out of the prison gates, were the statue now stands. On a sweltering summer’s day on 11 February 1990, the world held its breath as Mandela took his first steps to freedom. But not before journalists from across the world had gathered since early that morning to ensure a place in full view of the prisons gates. The time of his release had been given by government officials as 10:00, but journalists and a handful of supporters were made to wait for hours in the searing heat until 15:00 when Mandela made his graceful stride to freedom. And at his side was his then wife, Winnie Mandela. During the long wait, without water or sha- de, some journalists ventured into neighbouring vineyards in desperation to pick grapes for some kind of sustinance. On Thursday’s reunion between Madiba and journalists at the very same prison, journalists were however treated to warm drinks and scrumptious snacks. But once again it was yet another long wait for the arrival of the hero of the nation. It seemed as if the big man was only there in body and not in spirit, and his voice was not heard once.
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