Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
29 October 2024 | 11:45 CAT

Nelson Mandela’s grandson, Chief Mandla Mandela, has been barred from entering the UK, where he was scheduled to deliver a series of talks supporting the Palestinian cause during Black History Month.

Mandla Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela, has been denied entry to the United Kingdom over his public support for Palestinian resistance. Mandela had been scheduled to participate in a speaking tour across Manchester, Edinburgh, and Glasgow, organized by UK-based Palestinian solidarity groups.

Speaking to Radio Islam International, Ali Komape from Africa4Palestine criticized the visa denial, calling it “a deliberate political move.” Komape revealed that Mandela had been informed of the ban in mid-October. “The UK government initially claimed he didn’t need a visa due to his diplomatic passport, but then made him apply, only to reject the application,” Komape explained. “This was influenced by right-wing groups lobbying to keep him out.”

The visa refusal letter cited Mandela’s social media posts and public remarks as evidence of his alignment with what the UK deems “terrorist organizations.” Komape condemned this framing: “They are weaponizing his support for Palestinian resistance and equating solidarity with terrorism.”

Mandela’s planned appearances were part of efforts to raise awareness of the ongoing occupation of Palestine. “He wasn’t coming to the UK for leisure or to campaign for personal causes,” Komape emphasized. “He was invited by grassroots organizations to engage with progressive movements and advocate for Palestinian rights.”

While Mandela was barred from attending in person, he addressed some events remotely, reaffirming his commitment to the Palestinian struggle. “This decision exposes the UK’s hypocrisy,” Komape said. “At a time when France and other European nations are scaling back arms deals with Israel, Britain is acting as Israel’s proxy, silencing dissent and doing its bidding.”

Komape urged the public to see the visa ban as part of a broader trend. “The UK government is aligning itself with reactionary forces instead of standing for justice. Mandela’s rejection reflects the pressure Israel’s supporters exert globally to stifle solidarity with Palestine.”

Mandela’s supporters remain undeterred, and Komape vows to continue the campaign. “We’ll keep exposing the UK’s double standards and standing with Palestine,” he affirms.

This incident has sparked outrage among activists, raising concerns about the shrinking space for Palestinian advocacy in Europe. As the situation develops, Mandela’s allies calls for increased global solidarity to challenge the UK’s stance.

Listen here to the full interview on Your World Today with Mufti Yusuf Moosagie and Ali Komape.