Mandela turns 70 as the government restricts public commemorations

Mandela’s 70th birthday was marked by campaigns and rallies in many countries. In South Africa, authorities restricted outdoor celebrations and increased controls around Pollsmoor and Black townships. Winnie and relatives declined a special extended visit, refusing a privilege unavailable to other families. The anniversary foregrounded the contrast between global recognition of Mandela and the apartheid state’s continuing imprisonment of him.