The government this morning paid tribute to South Africa's first black president Nelson Mandela, who died last night, aged 95.

"Nelson Mandela is a person who will long be remembered for his unique way of doing politics. His non-violent approach, inspired undoubtedly by another political giant who walked the streets of South Africa, Mahatma Gandhi, disarmed and befuddled those who knew only aggression, domination, humiliation and exploitation.

"With his determination, his humility, his simplicity, his foresight and above all with his charisma, he managed to dismantle the superiority, the intolerance, and the arrogance of those who knew no better.

"Mandela showed the whole world that there are other avenues towards political solutions, besides the classical confrontational methods.

"He has left an indelible mark on the history of South Africa, and provided politicians around the world with a template as to how to move from division and apartheid towards forgiveness, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence," the government said.

Opposition leader Simon Busuttil said he was deeply saddened by the loss.

"To me he was a symbol of freedom and unity. He was also a perfect gentleman... Nelson Mandela preached reconciliation, civic duty and activism. He always sought the moral high ground.

"Nelson Mandela continues to inspire people the world over to fight for a fairer society based on the values of freedom and justice."

The Labour Party said Mandela remained synonymous with work to avoid a civil war in South Africa, he was awarded the Nobel peace prize for his work and attracted the admiration of many.

Alternattiva Demokratika chairman Arnold Cassola said:

"A man of principle has just left us. Mandela suffered for his ideals and never sold his beliefs. Thank you, Mr Mandela, for teaching us what human dignity is."

Speaker Anglu Farrugia said that the whole world and not just South Africa lost a great statesman who not only put his country on the route to democracy but also was a live and inspiring example of how everyone should live in peace.

The Malta Humanist Association also expressed its appreciation for Mandela, “a man whose life was a beautiful inspiration for millions”.

“Rising from a time of cruel rule and harsh discrimination, he not only ended this discrimination, but rose above retribution and led a country through a difficult time of soul-searching, forgiveness and reconciliation, a force of healing that spread far beyond the borders of South Africa”

The association noted that his retirement was characterised by efforts to promote AIDS awareness and to combat war and poverty.