African Lion Nelson Mandela joins Ancestors at 95

Breaking News: Iconic Leader Nelson Mandela Dead at 95

December 5, 2013 |  

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Reported by Maria Lloyd
CNN.com just broke the devastating news that the world-renowned iconic leader Nelson Mandela has passed away at the age of 95.
The Telegraph reports that his family and friends were by his side as he laid in his deathbed last night. Two of  Mandela’s granddaughters and Bantu Holomisa, a close family friend, were among those seen entering the house in the Johannesburg suburb of Houghton, along with military personnel responsible for the former president’s health.
Mandela’s death comes after several months of being in and out of critical illness throughout 2013. At this moment, there is no exact cause of death. CNN.com reports he was home at the time of his death and his room had been converted into an Intensive Care Unit and overlooked his garden. He received 24-hour care up until his death.

Mandela’s death occurs just as his biopic “Long Walk to Freedom,” starring British actor Idris Elba, screened in London. Mandela’s daughter Zindzi, who attended the screening in London, told reporters that her father had seen some clips of the film. She described the state of his health as “frail” but “fine.” Zindzi also told reporters “My father is fine. He’s 95 years old and he is pretty frail. We are hoping to see more of him.”
George W. Bush sent he and his wife’s condolences stating that Mandela “was one of the great forces of freedom and equality of our time.” The media is anticipating statements from President Obama and former President Clinton momentarily.
Mandela is best-known as an anti-apartheid revolutionary and politician who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. He was the first black South African to hold the office, and the first elected in a fully representative, multiracial election. He leaves behind his wife Graça Machel and eight children (six biological children, two stepchildren).