Nelson Mandela is considered to be one of few statesmen who have achieved almost universal respect around the world and within the political elite. Mandela’s “exceptionalism” was in his ability to motivate people to reconcile, to be patient and tolerant to each other. Believing that one day the good would prevail all the bad in the humanity, his way of thinking became a great role model for achieving justice where human rights were abused (Schoenmaker, 2014).
Nelson Mandela was a dedicated leader who had the capacity to sacrifice his own interests for the sake of the national interests and higher causes. He was a peace maker who intended to reinstate the apartheid law of South Africa with multi-racial democracy. Nelson …show more content…
Mandela’s acceptance of principles of democratic leadership allowed him to boost the communication between South Africa’s community and social groups, and influence dramatic changes in his nation’s political situation. He motivated his followers and earned their commitment by being a member of the African National Congress (ANC). In fact, the democratic leadership style applied by Mandela is based on mutual respect and was successfully combined with participatory leadership that requires collaboration between leaders and the community (Schoenmaker & Krupp, 2014). As a democratic leader, Nelson Mandela developed new policies through discussions, encouraging group members to interact and cooperate with each other. In the speech given after his release from prison, Mandela underlined the importance of involving all South Africans in the common efforts towards democratic changes which cannot take place behind the backs of the people. Mandela believed in the democratic values, even though he did not always initially agree with the results. Thus, his attempt to have prisoners addressed more respectfully by guards during his imprisonment, and later his intention to have the national voting age lowered to 14 can serve as a good example of his pursuits that did not bring the expected results (Schoenmaker & Krupp, …show more content…
Despite being repeatedly provoked, he never answered racism to racism. He considered consensus as a superior decision making process allowing building inspiration and commitment in the community. Nelson Mandela was a great motivator to South Africa, to the whole world, and to all who opposed deprivation and oppression. Nowadays, Nelson Mandela is an embodiment of a revolutionary leader who has the talent to empower and motivate other people by means of strong regard for consensus and the democratic principles serving for the good of the world