A persistent conspiracy theory in South Africa suggests that Nelson Mandela died in 1985 while still imprisoned, and that the man who emerged after his release was an imposter.
This theory, although widely debunked, continues to spark debate and intrigue. Let’s explore why this belief persists and how it connects to broader socio-political issues.
The Conspiracy Theory
The conspiracy theory posits that Nelson Mandela, the iconic leader of the anti-apartheid movement, died in prison at the age of 67.
According to this theory, after Mandela’s supposed death in 1985, the apartheid government allegedly replaced him with an impostor named Gibson Mander.
This claim has been fueled by various factors, including Mandela’s supposed lack of fluency in Kosa (a Southern Bantu language) and the discovery of videos showing him speaking the language.
The theory further suggests that the public’s participation in 67 minutes of charity on Mandela’s birthday is a cover for the fact that he was allegedly killed at age 67 in 1985.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation has issued statements and released historical footage to counter these claims, but skepticism remains among some South Africans.
Why the Theory Persists
Historical Context
South Africa’s history of apartheid was marked by extreme violence and oppression. The harsh realities of this era are difficult for many to fully grasp today.
The theory that Mandela died during this tumultuous period reflects the broader mistrust and confusion that arose from those dark times.
The Role of the Impostor Theory
The alleged impostor, Gibson Mander, is said to have undergone training to mimic Mandela’s mannerisms and speech patterns.
Conspiracy theorists claim that this deception extended to Mandela’s personal life, including his marriage to Winnie Mandela.
The notion that the man leading negotiations for South Africa’s transition to democracy was not the real Mandela but a puppet of his opponents contributes to the belief that the country’s political landscape has been manipulated.
Resurfacing of the Theory
This theory gained renewed attention in 2019 when an image of a younger Mandela was processed through a beauty enhancement app, FaceApp.
This event, combined with cryptic lyrics from Johnny Clegg’s 1987 song, which alluded to Mandela’s mysterious absence, stirred public curiosity once again.
Political and Social Implications
The Inequality Debate
The belief that Mandela did not liberate South Africa is tied to the enduring inequalities in post-apartheid South Africa.
While the ANC’s policies aimed to dismantle apartheid’s legacy, many argue that economic liberation and true equality have not been fully achieved.
This frustration fuels conspiracy theories that question the legitimacy of the ANC’s leadership and Mandela’s role in the transition.
Global Economic Forces
ANC’s shift from radical activism to pragmatic governance in the 1990s was influenced by global economic forces.
The collapse of the Berlin Wall and the rise of capitalism led to significant economic challenges for South Africa.
Mandela’s administration faced the daunting task of rebuilding a nation with limited international support, a challenge exacerbated by the apartheid government’s economic legacy.
Conclusion
The conspiracy theory that Nelson Mandela died in prison reflects deep-seated suspicions and frustrations about South Africa’s transition from apartheid.
While there is no scientific or historical evidence to support the claim that Mandela was replaced by an impostor, the theory persists as a symbol of broader discontent with the country’s post-apartheid trajectory.