Mandla Mandela, the late Zoleka Mandela’s cousin, has finally spoken up after receiving anger from Mzansi.
This after he allegedly went to her burial despite being forbidden to do so. Zoleka apparently had a list of persons she didn’t want to attend her funeral, and he was on it.
On Friday, September 29, the funeral was conducted in Bryanston, and the Daily Sun captured a video of him coming into the funeral. People were outraged by the viral footage and wondered why he didn’t respect Zoleka’s desire.
“It is extremely unfortunate that my cousin sister’s last rites were marred by this unsavoury behaviour and that serious allegations of this nature could be bandied about so irresponsibly,” he added in a statement.
“We call on all family and friends to restore respect and dignity and to let Zoleka rest in peace,” he stated in a letter.
Mandla also arrived to the funeral before the rest of the family. He allegedly left the church a few minutes before the family with the casket and did not proceed to the cemetery.
Mandla Mandela has arrived at the funeral. #ZolekaMandela #funeral @DailysunCelebs @dailysunsa pic.twitter.com/aScDthCa6i
— Andiswa (@NgenyaneAndiswa) September 29, 2023
After being denied access, EFF leader Julius Malema and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi attempted to leave the event, according to ZA News. Before they could get into their automobiles, a family member approached them and requested them to return to the church.
When Zoleka’s death was confirmed, Mandla issued a statement stating she was a voice of hope.
“We honour her brave and heroic fight against cancer, but her death leaves a huge void.” She was a voice of hope and encouragement to many others facing the cancer epidemic. Her fortitude inspired others to believe that they, too, could fight the war for survival.
“Her time has come and destiny has taken her away too soon. Her spirited life and legacy will always remind us of the warrior soul who fought and succumbed. Yet in doing so she gave hope to others despite her own pain and agony,” he said.