Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Africanews
Published on 2024-01-29 13:43:34
Guernsey’s auction house in New York has decided to halt the sale of around 70 personal items that belonged to Nelson Mandela, the anti-apartheid hero of South Africa. The auction, named “Mandela, The Auction SUSPENDED,” was abruptly stopped without an explanation, in response to public outcry in South Africa.
Makaziwe Mandela, the eldest daughter of Nelson Mandela, had originally planned to auction items such as his hearing aids, walking sticks, and reading glasses on February 22, with the intention of using the proceeds to fund a memorial garden near his burial site. The South African Heritage Resources Agency (Sahra) contested her decision in court, but they lost the case, and Sahra is looking to appeal the ruling.
South Africa’s Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa stated that blocking the sale was necessary, as Mr. Mandela “is integral to South Africa’s heritage.” Minister Kodwa emphasized the importance of preserving the legacy of former President Mandela and ensuring that his life’s work and experiences remain in the country for generations to come.
Ndaba Mandela, Mr. Mandela’s grandson, also voiced his opposition to the auction in quotes to the local media. Nelson Mandela passed away in 2013 at the age of 95 after spending nearly 30 years imprisoned for fighting white-minority rule. He went on to become South Africa’s first black president in 1994. His impact and legacy are undeniably significant in South Africa and beyond.
