Probe launched into Qunu clash

AN investigation has been launched after a delegation of Christians was turned away from former president Nelson Mandela’s home in Qunu.

The missionaries, from the Reformed Church of Christ and the Apostolic Faith Mission, were turned away at Mandela’s home by two officers on Sunday when they came to offer their prayers and support.

Two members of the group, while attempting to take pictures of themselves outside the house, were temporarily arrested and held inside a security room at the gate.

“I now understand that this was not only about pictures,” police spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Mzukisi Fatyela said.

He had asked the local police commander what had happened.

“At first he downplayed the incident as a minor dispute about taking pictures, and after getting numerous inquiries from the media, new facts have come to light and I intend to meet the police commander and officers who were on duty to give statements on what occurred.”

Meanwhile, Mandela daughter Zenani Dlamini gave what appeared to be the most positive update yet on Mandela’s situation as she looked at wellwishers’ cards hanging outside the hospital.

“He’s doing very well,” she told reporters without giving any more details.

Mandela’s wife, Graca Machel, has thanked everyone who had sent messages of support for the ailing former statesman.

“So much love and generosity from South Africans, Africans across the continent, and thousands more from across the world, have come our way to lighten the burden of anxiety, bringing us love, comfort and hope,” she said.

“We have felt the closeness of the world and the deepest meaning of strength and peace.”

Mandela, 94, was spending his 10th day in hospital yesterday. – Sapa