Mandla Mandela calls for solidarity with Palestine on anniversary of grandfather’s release

Nkosi Mandla Mandela has called on South Africans to gather at the Mvezo Great Place near Mthatha on February 11, the anniversary of his grandfather Nelson Mandela’s release from prison. This is to express solidarity with Palestine and to raise concerns about what he described as growing foreign influence in the country’s traditional institutions. In a video message circulated this week, Mandla said the day should be used to highlight SA’s long-standing support for the oppressed, particularly Palestinians, and to challenge what he termed the infiltration of political and traditional structures by pro-Israel interests.

“This day marks a turning point in our march to freedom as South Africans, but it is also a symbol of our commitment to justice and equality,” Mandla said. His remarks come amid controversy over AbaThembu King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo’s recent engagements with Israeli officials, including reciprocal visits that have drawn criticism from some political and traditional leaders. Mandla said that sections of the monarchy and other institutions were being drawn into pro-Israel relations that undermined SA’s official position on Palestine.

He referred in particular to Dalindyebo’s interactions with Israeli representatives and described them as inconsistent with the country’s foreign policy stance. The February 11 gathering is expected to draw representatives from political movements, faith-based groups, civil society organisations and traditional leaders. The dispute has further highlighted tensions between Dalindyebo and several political figures, including Eastern Cape ANC chair Oscar Mabuyane and EFF leader Julius Malema.

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Responding to Mandla’s comments, Dalindyebo defended his engagements with Israeli officials, arguing that practical support for service delivery in the Eastern Cape should not be politicised. “If Nkosi Zwelivelile wants to fight the aid from Israel then he must provide the Eastern Cape with that water,” the king said. “If he can’t, then he must allow those who can to do it.”

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