JOHANNESBURG — At the child’s funeral, her mother wished she’d given the girl more hugs and more kisses. Her grandfather said she was an “old soul” who understood the world better than most adults. Her father extolled her musical abilities. Her uncles said she was mischievous, charming and sometimes irritating.
And in the front pew at the funeral sat an old man who rarely ventures into public these days: Nelson Mandela, saying farewell to 13-year-old Zenani Mandela, one of his nine great-grandchildren.
It was a simple family tragedy, except that the family was South Africa’s most famous.
Six years ago Nelson Mandela came out of retirement, flew to Zurich and lobbied for his country to host the World Cup. On the eve of the World Cup opening, Zenani attended the gala Kick Off concert — but was killed in a car accident on the way home.
The driver of the car, a family friend, was arrested. South African media report he might face charges of driving under the influence of alcohol when he appears in court.
Mandela, 91, did not speak at the funeral. His former wife, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, was also present.
One friend, Maria Ambrosio, tearfully read a tribute to the teen: “To Zenani, my best friend: Your heart was like a temple, always full of gold to share. Thank you for all the smiles. And you will always be my friend and sister.”
