Mandela to lead 'quieter life'

2004-06-01 11:17

Johannesburg - South Africa's anti-apartheid hero and one of the world's most revered statesman, Nelson Mandela, announced on Tuesday that he will be scaling back his public schedule to enjoy "a much quieter life."

Mandela, who turns 86 next month, said he wanted to spend time with his family and friends, complete his memoirs about his tenure as South Africa's first black president, enjoy reading and engage in "quiet reflection."

"My diary and my public activities will as from today be severely and significantly reduced," Mandela said at an event organised at his foundation in Johannesburg.

"We trust that people will understand our considerations and grant us the opportunity for a much quieter life," he said.

Mandela, who spent 27 years in prison for his anti-apartheid activities, is very popular in South Africa and is often called upon to attend events including leading the delegation that traveled to Zurich last month to win the right to host the 2010 World Cup.

But age has begun to take its toll on the statesman, who at times has to use a cane to walk.

"I do not intend to hide away totally from the public," Mandela said, but he made clear that he was no longer able to meet the demands placed upon him to make public appearances.

"Henceforth I want to be in the position of calling you to ask whether I would be welcome rather than being called upon to do things and participate in events. The appeal therefore is 'Don't call me, I'll call you'," he said.

"I'm turning 86 in a few week's time and that's a longer life than most people are granted."

"I have the added blessing of being in very good health, at least according to my doctors. I'm confident that nobody present here today will accuse me of selfishness if I asked to spend time, while I'm still in good heath, with my family, my friends and also with myself."

He said that he missed the opportunity for reading, thinking and quiet reflection after his release from Robben Island and would now do these things and work on his memoirs.

The ex-president said the work of the three legacy organisations, the Nelson Mandela Fund, the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund and the Mandela/Rhodes Fund would continue.

This time it was "for real" Mandela said of the skepticism that he really would step back from his hectic schedule.

Asked what his emotions were he said: "... Seeing so many young ladies here..." a comment that was met with laughter and applause.

"It is nice to have billionaires clapping for me he said referring to the audience that included Johan Rupert, Tokyo Sexwale and Judge Kathy Satchwell. -Sapa-AFP

- AFP