Turkish Islamic scholar Gülen expresses condolences for Mandela
Turkish Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen has expressed condolences over former South African President Nelson Mandela's death, lauding him for dedicating his life to principles such as peace, democracy, social justice and equality.
In a letter he sent to the South African Embassy in Washington, Gülen said, “We remember Mandela's honorable life and his heritage.”
The Islamic scholar said Mandela showed how glorious life could be by preferring conciliation rather than retaliation despite the extraordinary hardship and hostility he faced.
“Today, while we remember lessons Mandela taught with his life and his erudite actions, we should renew our intention to value people as human beings and humankind's shared values such as mutual understanding through dialogue, respect and peace,” Gülen said in his letter.
More than 70 heads of state and government are expected in South Africa this week to attend funeral events for Mandela, with most attending a huge memorial service in Johannesburg on Tuesday.
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