The former “Suits” actress caused a controversy earlier this week when she stated that her wedding to Prince Harry sparked as much euphoria in South Africa as Nelson Mandela’s release from jail in 1990 after 27 years. Zwelivelile “Mandla” Mandela has emphasized that the two incidents cannot be compared.
“It can never be compared to the celebration of someone’s wedding,” he told “MailOnline.”
“Madiba’s celebration was based on South Africa’s victory over 350 years of colonialism and 60 years of a harsh apartheid system. Therefore, it cannot be compared to It.”
Mandla pushed the duchess to be a “champion and advocate” for the causes his late grandfather championed if she wished to be perceived as more similar to him.
He stated, “Every day, individuals aspire to be Nelson Mandela by either comparing themselves to him or desiring to emulate him.
Before individuals can consider themselves Nelson Mandelas, they must investigate his work and be able to promote and push for the work he championed.
The ANC representative claimed that the celebrations for his grandfather’s release were far more serious and significant than her wedding to a “white prince.”
Mandla stated, “We still wear the wounds of the past.” However, they (Mr. Mandela’s celebrations) were the result of the majority of our people exercising their right to vote for the very first time.
“He advocated on behalf of oppressed minorities, children, and women, as well as the most vulnerable members of our society.
“He frequently spoke about persecuted nations around the world, but people remain mute on these topics.”
“However, this is what we prefer to see from those who consider themselves “Nelson Mandela.”
Then you might champion the causes he championed.
“My advise to everyone is to live like Nelson Mandela did and to champion the principles he championed.
“This is the greatest litmus test. What is the point of people dancing in the streets and singing President Nelson Mandela’s name if their beliefs are diametrically opposite to his?
“Nelson Mandela’s release from prison marked the conclusion of over 350 years of struggle in which generations of our people sacrificed their lives. “It cannot be compared to a wedding celebration.”
Markle, who has children Archie, 3, and Lili, 14 months, with Harry, made the remarks in her explosive cover story with “The Cut,” released this week, in which she discussed visiting the 2019 premiere of “The Lion King.”
“He looked at me and said, ‘I just need you to know that when you married into this family, we celebrated in the streets much like we did when Nelson Mandela was released from jail,’” she added, recalling how a South African cast member had approached her to speak.