What Nelson Mandela stood for and preached after spending 27 years in jail was yesterday, on Mandela Day, overshadowed by political rhetoric. If only we had used the day to foster unity and purpose in a nation that is losing its bearings. Yesterday was also the opening of the International Aids Conference in Durban.The two events are critical to our history and require of us to think beyond political ambitions.Mandela's legacy is being destroyed, distorted and abused by those who want to further their political survival.They used the day to preach their own brand of politics, which if properly scrutinised, is the exact opposite of what Mandela stood for.That is why we fully agree with ANC Gauteng provincial leader Paul Mashatile who yesterday said Mandela was for all of us. But he was a lone voice among those who claim Mandela as their own, belonging to no one else.It is important to take Mandela's legacy beyond the ANC - to the rest of the world. In so doing, his legacy will transcend factional politics and stand the test of time.Instead of being lauded, Mashatile can expect to be vilified by those whose political agenda is narrow and self-centred.South Africa today needs Mandela's guidance more than ever before. We are at a crossroads, not sure who to believe or trust to take the country to the next level.As the local government elections loom, we are being bombarded with promises of a better future. Mandela's vision was of a South Africa free from hatred, prejudice and discrimination.He led the fight against inequality and preached tolerance.Those in charge of our political space today cannot claim to practise the above. Their shortcomings lie in their selfish idea of what Mandela stood for. Let us continue to honour Mandela and respect his politics without adding our own subjective flavour...