AS rumours multiplied yesterday of the imminent release of Nelson Mandela, the African National Congress in Lusaka said any plan to fly their jailed leader to freedom in another country would be
And a representative of the state president’s office in Pretoria said there was absolutely no truth in speculation that an unconditional release of Mandela was imminent.
Press and television crews set up camp outside the Volkshospitaal in Cape Town, hoping for an indication that the ANC leader was not returning to Pollsmoor Prison.
Mandela’s wife and family have moved back into the Mount Nelson Hotel and are making lengthy, daily visits to him. After her visit yesterday, Mrs Mandela spoke briefly to the press. She is banned and cannot be quoted, but she had nothing to add to the
Mandela, 68, is recovering from a minor operation in the hospital. It has been clear for nearly a week that he had fully recovered and was medically fit to return to the prison cell he has occupied for 22 years.
Prison Services has said he is being kept in hospital for post- operative care. However, the speculation was that the government would use his illness as reason for release on compassionate grounds.- The Weekly Mail, November 22 to 28 1985