Visa Issue Forces Cancellation of Zwelivelile Mandela’s UK Speaking Tour

The anticipated nine-date speaking tour by Zwelivelile 'Mandla' Mandela in the United Kingdom has faced an unexpected hurdle due to visa processing issues. The grandson of the late Nelson Mandela was scheduled to address several pro-Palestine events across the UK but was unable to obtain a visa in time for his planned arrival.

Mandela expressed his disappointment at the situation, stating, “It seems that there are those who are intent on preventing me from being physically with you in Britain.” His comments emphasized the significance of his tour to the pro-Palestinian activist community in Britain, with planned appearances in cities such as Sheffield, Manchester, and Glasgow.

The Sheffield Palestine Coalition against Israeli Apartheid clarified on Thursday that Mandela was initially informed he could enter the UK on his South African government passport without a visa. However, this position was later reversed, and Mandela was told a visa was indeed required. Despite attempts by the African National Congress (ANC) officials to resolve the matter, the visa was not granted, the organization stated.

Mandela is still expected to continue with his scheduled visit to Dublin, Ireland, where visa requirements have been waived, in stark contrast to the UK situation.

A UK Home Office spokesperson commented on the issue, “The UK has robust safeguards to ensure visas are only issued to those who we want to welcome to our country.” This development follows allegations in British media reports regarding Mandela’s “inflammatory rhetoric,” including support for organizations such as Hamas and Hezbollah, which are designated as terrorist groups by the UK government.

Mandela has previously voiced support for the Palestinian right to resist and has made statements acknowledging the historical struggle against apartheid in South Africa, drawing parallels with the Palestinian cause. He has been vocal in advocating for international support for Palestinian resistance, calling on communities to “stand for justice and human rights for all.”

This incident has sparked discussions on the broader diplomatic and political landscape between South Africa and the UK, given Nelson Mandela’s historical support for the Palestinian cause during his lifetime. The denial of entry to his grandson has added tension to an already complex international relationship.