A bronze statue of former South African president and anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela was unveiled on Wednesday in the Parliament Square during a high-toned ceremony.

Mandela held an emotional speech at the inauguration, saying all efforts made during the apartheid in South Africa and suffering are represented by the 2.7-metre statue.

“Although this statue is of one man, it symbolizes all those who resisted oppression, especially in my country,” Mandela told the numerous audience.

Madiba, as the former leader is known in his homeland, also said he intends to celebrate his 90th birthday next year in London and participate at an event that will be centered on the fight against AIDS.

Prominent figures attended Wednesday’s ceremony, Britain’s Prime Minister Gordon Brown being among them. He praised Mandela for his dedication to the fight against apartheid, saying he is the “greatest and most courageous leader of our generation.” 

Brown said Mandela represents a true model and a “beacon of hope” for all those oppressed, underlining that not even 27 years of imprisonment couldn’t break his confidence and tremendous will.

London’s mayor Ken Livingston was also present at the unveiling, that was possible after his efforts and ardent campaign to place the statue among those of prominent leaders like Winston Churchill, Benjamin Disraeli, Abraham Lincoln and another South African historical figure Field Marshal Jan Smuts.

“Long after we are forgotten, you will be remembered for having taught the world one amazing truth…that you can achieve justice without vengeance,” Livingstone said.

South African journalist and anti-apartheid activist Donald Wood had the idea to build a statue in the honour of the man that promoted democracy and broke the barriers of discrimination with the cost of his freedom.