Mandela’s Key in Legal Battle | Johannesburg News

South Africa’s heritage agency is fighting a legal battle to halt the auction of Nelson Mandela’s personal items, including a disputed key once used at Robben Island, arguing they’re national treasures that shouldn’t be sold—especially to foreign buyers. The key, allegedly belonging to Mandela’s prison warden Christo Brand, is being challenged as a fake or inmate-made prop with no real connection to Mandela’s cell. Yet court officials question this, noting Brand signed contracts and profited from exhibitions that marketed the key as authentic. The heritage agency insists experts—not courts—should determine heritage status and wants to inspect the items in New York before sale. Mandela’s daughter Makaziwe supports export, claiming no heritage value and adherence to law. The court has heard all sides and is now holding judgment on whether these historic relics stay in South Africa—or vanish abroad. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/fab04cec27fea981