18 July 2003
The African National Congress extends warm wishes and heartfelt congratulations to you, Isithwalandwe Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, on the occasion of your 85th birthday.
We join millions of South Africans and many from around the world in sharing with you, Tata, this milestone in your life.
We celebrate, together with millions of your compatriots, a life spent in service of the people and in pursuit of the ideals of national liberation, democracy and freedom.
The African National Congress is privileged and honoured to count you as one of the great leaders of our movement, who continues to provide advice, inspiration and leadership.
We recall, on this important occasion, the immense contribution that you have made over many decades to the liberation of our people and the building of our nation. As a founding member of the ANC Youth League; national volunteer-in-chief of the Defiance Campaign; the first commander-in-chief of Umkhonto we Sizwe; as president of the ANC; and as South Africa's first democratically-elected President, you always put the needs and interests of the people above your own.
As we celebrate your 85th birthday, we acknowledge with gratitude and respect the great personal sacrifices you have made in the service of democracy and freedom.
Happy birthday, Tata. May you have many more.
(Signed)
Kgalema Motlanthe
Secretary General
Issued by:
African National Congress