His 13 year old great grand daughter Zenani Mandela dies after the car they were driving in overturns.
She and her mother were returning from attending the World Cup kickoff celebrations. The driver has been arrested on charges of drink driving. Zenani’s mother was not hurt it was believed. Contrary to earlier reports, Mandela’s ex wife – Winnie Madikizela-Mandela was not in the car.
Mandela will not attend the opener which FIFA authorities were hoping he would do:
The Nelson Mandela Foundation released this statement:
“We are sure that South Africans and people all over the world will stand in solidarity with Mr Mandela and his family in the aftermath of this tragedy,” said a statement.
“We continue to believe that the World Cup is a momentous and historic occasion for South Africa and the continent and we are certain it will be a huge success.
“Madiba [Mr Mandela’s clan name] will be there with you in spirit today.”
It would have been wonderful to see Madiba on the stage even briefly. But he needs his time for mourning after such a tragic loss. It does, however, set the opener off on a somber note.