Following the South African national anthem being sung, Programme director Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed local and international dignitaries and the public, thanking them for their attendance.
Ramaphosa apologised for the wet conditions but said the weather was “exactly the way Nelson Mandela would have wanted it”, explaining that rain is a blessing and was an indication that “the Gods are welcoming you and the gates of heaven are open”.
Describing Mandela as a mentor and teacher, Ramaphosa said Madiba “never gave up on our failures”.
His message to Mandela was to rest and enjoy the view of the country as a result of the work he has done.
“[Mandela’s] long walk is over and he can finally rest,” Ramaphosa said, adding “our journey is only beginning”.
Marking Mandela’s unifying power amid the diversity of South Africa and the world, his memorial service was opened with an interfaith prayer by Jewish, Hindu, Muslim and Christian denominations.
However, crowds in the stadium had begun singing loudly during the interfaith prayer, drowning out the prayers. Ramaphosa reprimanded the crowd and called on them to show respect for the speakers.
Transport delays resulted in hundreds of empty seats at the stadium at the start of the memorial service.
US President Barack Obama and the first lady Michelle Obama arrived nearly two hours late for the memorial service. Earlier reports indicated traffic congestions had delayed their convoy.
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