It must be difficult to live under the shadow of one of the greatest statesmen of all, Nelson Mandela. OK, we’re sure it hasn’t hindered Mandla in his business or political career but that last name is quite a bit of pressure to carry around.

Obviously the stress has had an effect on Mandla, who was today found guilty of assault and grievous bodily harm in 2013 by the Mthatha Magistrate’s Court. This from TimesLive:

Mandela was on trial for allegedly assaulting a motorist. The complainant, Mlamli Ngudle, also accused Mandela of butting him on the head with a firearm.

Under cross-examination, state witness Lwandile Madala said he had heard Mandela say to the complainant: “Are you insulting my mother?”, before the accused went to fetch the firearm in his black Toyota double cab, which was parked nearby.

Whilst the magistrate added that the two accounts varied (shocker that) the evidence was sufficient to hand down the judgement. TimesLive again:

Conjwa said Mandela was “arrogant, argumentative and evasive” during his testimony, adding that he had an “exaggerated sense of self”.

Court has now been adjourned, and the defence and the state will consult further with the magistrate.

It all sounds like a pretty far cry from the ideals your grandfather held so dear, young man. Here’s hoping the rest of us can make Madiba proud.

[source:timeslive]