Former PM says Winnie Mandela was 'Nanny' of South Africa

Former prime minister, Portia Simpson Miller, has expressed sadness at the news of the death of Winnie Madikezela Mandela.

In a release this afternoon, Simpson Miller described the late anti-apartheid activist as "the Freedom Fighter, the Warrior Queen and the Nanny of South Africa".

The former prime minister said: "Winnie is a symbol of strength to women around the world and I will never forget her strength and defiance in the face of extraordinary oppression."

She continued: "The people of modern South Africa owe a debt of gratitude to Winnie. As she fought for justice and equality she faced each challenge with determination. Her defiance in the face of oppression was strengthened by the support of freedom loving South Africans and people who believe in equality across the world.  Her love of country, her sacrifice and commitment to the cause of justice will go down in the annuals of history as one of the greatest contribution of an individual to the freedom of a people."