[Archive 2007-06-06] Ex-wife of Nelson Mandela denied entry into Canada

Historical archive — originally published 2007-06-06. This report records what was known on that date. It is not current news; subsequent events may have changed the situation. Wikinews closed in May 2026.

The High Commission of Canada in South Africa is not granting ex-wife of Nelson Mandela, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, a visa to enter Canada.

There is no word as to why Canadian officials refused, but sources speculate that her conviction for being involved in the death of a 14-year-old activist, and other incidents, could be factors.

Madikizela-Mandela is a figure of debate because her supporters in the struggle against apartheid were violent. In 1991, she was convicted for kidnapping. In 2003, she was convicted of fraud.

Madikizela-Mandela, 73, was scheduled to speak at a fundraising gala and dinner in Toronto, on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. ET. It was named "A Night in Soweto", and was presented by arts organization MusicaNoir. According to CanadaNewsWire, African-American actor LeVar Burton flew from Los Angeles, California to Toronto to fill in for Madikizela-Mandela.

An opera named "The Passion of Winnie", about the life of Madikizela-Mandela, is to be presented at Toronto's Luminato Festival at 8:00 p.m ET on Friday. It is not known if Madikizela-Mandela will be granted a visa to attend the event.

Luminato's official website stated that it is "an event not to be missed", Madikizela-Mandela is a "fascinating and strong personality", and she demonstrates "rarely displayed true and charismatic leadership". Tickets for the event are CAN$200.

Source and licence

Text adapted from Ex-wife of Nelson Mandela denied entry into Canada by Wikinews contributors under CC BY 2.5. Paragraphs have been selected and abridged, and formatting adjusted. Contributor history.