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Guernsey’s auction house in New York has delayed the sale of over 70 personal artifacts belonging to Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s anti-apartheid hero.
The sale, “Mandela, The Auction SUSPENDED,” was unexpectedly halted without explanation. The decision is in response to a public outcry in South Africa.
Makaziwe Mandela, Nelson Mandela’s eldest daughter, had intended to auction off belongings including his hearing aids, walking sticks, and reading glasses on February 22.
She intended to use the profits to establish a memorial garden near his burial location. The South African Heritage Resources Agency (Sahra) challenged her decision in court but lost. Sahra plans to appeal the verdict.
South Africa’s Arts and Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa, stated that delaying the sale was important because Mr Mandela “is integral to South Africa’s heritage”.
“It is thus important that we preserve the legacy of former President Mandela and ensure that his life’s work experiences remain in the country for generations to come,” said Mandela in a statement.
Mr Mandela’s grandson, Ndaba, was quoted by local media as stating he was also opposed to the auction.
Nelson Mandela died in 2013 at the age of 95.
He was imprisoned for nearly three decades for opposing white minority rule before becoming South Africa’s first black president in 1994.
