Unusually for an African leader, after four years in office, Nelson Mandela enjoys support from most of his people.

The world's most famous prisoner, international hero, saint almost - Nelson Mandela became the first president of post-apartheid South Africa in 1994.

The BBC's Mike Wooldridge captures the historic moment when Nelson Mandela walked free

The leader of the African National Congress was freed in 1990 after 27 years in jail.

A lesser man might have been tempted to hatred and vengeance, but Mr Mandela's message was one of forgiveness and reconciliation.

As he cast his vote in the 1994 elections which would make him president, Nelson Mandela spoke of his dreams of "one nation".

Nelson Mandela's 'one nation' speech

"This is for all South Africans an unforgettable occasion. It is the realisation of their hopes and dreams that we have cherished for decades. We are starting a new era of hope, of reconciliation, of nation-building," he said.

"We sincerely hope that by the mere casting of a vote the result will give hope to all South Africans and will make us, all South Africans, realise that this is our country. We are one nation."

ANC promises

Freedom: Mandela on release from prison

Having come to power with a pledge to improve the lives of the impoverished black majority, Mr Mandela knows that the ANC government has fallen far short on its promises. In housing, education and healthcare it has failed to make significant progress in tackling the inequalities left by the apartheid era.

But most people are still willing to give the ANC the benefit of the doubt - largely because of the reassuring presence, and moral authority, of Mr Mandela.

In recent months, he has become more of a figurehead - handing over day-to-day power to his chosen successor Thabo Mbeki, who is expected to take over as president when Mr Mandela steps down in April next year.

Tony Leon, leader of the opposition Democratic Party, says Mr Mandela will be a hard act to follow.

"Mr Mandela is a transcending figure - although he is avowedly party political - too much so on occasion - he certainly appeals across all political and racial groups in South Africa," he said.

"For obvious reasons the same cannot be said of his successor, who has none of the moral iconography that Nelson Mandela possesses, and to be perfectly fair, there are few political leaders around the world who do."

Difficult times ahead

Thabo Mbeki: chosen successor

When Mr Mandela steps down he will leave behind him some serious problems.

South Africa has been hit by economic crisis, with unemployment at 25% and high interest rates.

At the same time, the patience of the black majority is wearing thin and pressure will mount on the ANC, and Thabo Mbeki, to deliver them a better deal.

But without Mr Mandela, difficult though things are at present, South Africa would not even have got this far.

Mr Mandela is said to be impetuous, quick of temper and at times authoritarian. But probably only he could have steered South Africa out of apartheid towards reconciliation and true nationhood.