The grandson of former South Africa prime minister Nelson Mandela was prevented from talking at a Manchester event after being refused entry into the United Kingdom.
Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela – known as Mandla – was due to speak in Manchester on Friday night and was also expected to visit Manchester University earlier in the day.
The tribal chief was due to fly to Britain to speak at events during Black History Month in eight cities including London, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Sheffield as part of his Dismantling Apartheid, South Africa to Palestine tour.
But on Thursday, instead of physically attending an event held by Sheffield Palestine Coalition against Israeli Apartheid, he joined the session remotely, reported The Independent.
The Home Office confirmed Mandla, 50, was refused entry.
A spokesperson said: “The UK has robust safeguards to ensure visas are only issued to those we want to welcome to our country.”
A grandson of former Nobel Prize winner Mandela, he has previously been criticised for statements he has made in support of the Palestinian Resistance and its various formations.
He had been due to speak at the Cross Street Chapel, in the city centre.
On Friday, a spokesman from Stand Up To Racism said the government’s decision was shameful.
They added: “The Home Office have refused a visa at the last minute for Nelson Mandela’s grandson who was due to speak in Manchester tonight.
“He was also going to be at the university this afternoon to support the students.
“Perhaps inspired by him, even in his absence, the students have occupied a building at the university.
“They continue to demand that the University cut all ties with Israel.”
Featured image of Cross Street Chapel: Rob Currell
