Cape Town – The auction of over 100 items belonging to the late former president Nelson Mandela, has been cancelled.
The South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) confirmed the suspension of the auction, which was scheduled for February 22, 2024.
A British-based auction house in Guernsey was initially set to oversee the auction but posted a suspension notice on its website, leading to the cancellation.
SAHRA, in its recent court bid on December 28, 2023, filed a leave of appeal application against the sale of Mandela’s belongings but lost to Mandela’s daughter Makaziwe, EWN reported.
The cancellation of the divisive auction has been welcomed by SAHRA, and further details are expected to be released in a media statement.
“It allows the ongoing legal proceedings to be concluded and affords Sahra the opportunity to pursue its objective of preserving the cultural heritage of our nation,” SAHRA said in a statement.
NEWS: The South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) has welcomed the decision to suspend the auctioning of Nelson Mandela’s items. pic.twitter.com/1A7RgZCVCh
— Sihle Mavuso (@ZANewsFlash) January 30, 2024
The auction items included Mandela’s Madiba shirts, drawings, identity book, and gifts from high-profile friends. Makaziwe has not responded to requests for comment.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
