At the age of 95, former prisoner-turned hero Nelson Mandela has sadly passed away. After his 27-year imprisonment, Mandela led South Africa out of years and years of apartheid and not only became South Africa’s first black president, but also one of the most profound leaders in world history. Read what South Africa’s current president Jacob Zuma had to say about Nelson Mandela and watch his official announcement here:

“He is now resting. He is now at peace,” Zuma said. “Our nation has lost its greatest son. Our people have lost a father.”

“What made Nelson Mandela great was precisely what made him human,” the president said in his late-night address. “We saw in him what we seek in ourselves.”

After the break, watch President Obama give his official statement on the passing of the great Nelson Mandela. Rest In Peace.

— Jason Holzman

[Via]