Nelson Mandela’s grandson reportedly denied entry to UK for pro-Palestinian talks
Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela, the grandson of Nelson Mandela, was denied entry to the UK ahead of a planned speaking tour at pro-Palestine events. The 50-year-old was scheduled to speak at events in eight cities across the UK, including London, Edinburgh, and Brighton as part of Black History Month. However, he was unable to physically attend an event held by the Sheffield Palestine Coalition against Israeli Apartheid and had to join the session remotely.
The Sheffield Palestine Coalition stated that Mr. Mandela had been prevented from traveling to the UK after initially being told that his South African government passport did not require a visa. Despite efforts by senior ANC (African National Congress) members, the British embassy did not relent and did not issue a visa.
As a former member of the South African parliament under the ANC party, it is uncertain whether Mr. Mandela still holds a diplomatic passport. Despite the challenges, he addressed the pro-Palestinian event in Sheffield, expressing his support for the Palestinian Resistance and its various formations.
The situation arose after concerns were raised regarding Mandla Mandela’s statements on the Middle East, particularly his support for the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel by Hamas. He had called for all resistance formations to intensify the struggle and had praised Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.
The UK considers both Hamas and Hezbollah as terrorist organizations. Despite the denial of entry to the UK, Mr. Mandela is expected to speak at the Global Peace and Unity Festival in London later this month. However, his participation led to the withdrawal of Sir Stephen Timms, a minister in the Department for Work and Pensions, from speaking at the event.
Nelson Mandela had been a vocal supporter of Palestine and the Palestine Liberation Organisation during his lifetime. The Home Office stated that the UK has robust safeguards in place to ensure visas are only issued to those who are welcomed into the country. Attempts to contact Mr. Mandela for comment by The Independent were reportedly made.