Thinking today of Mandela, one of the Elders, and his great-granddaughter Zenani. Sorrow attends what should be great joy, just when the eyes of the world are on the nation he struggled so long to build and heal. May they be the eyes of compassion.

By BARRY BEARAK

Published: June 11, 2010

 JOHANNESBURG — Heartbreak intruded on the opening day of the soccer World Cup when Nelson Mandela’s 13-year-old great granddaughter Zenani was killed in an auto accident here early on Friday. In response, Mr. Mandela canceled a much-heralded appearance at a tournament depicted as a triumphant showcase for his country and his continent.

The teenager was returning home from the event’s Thursday night kickoff concert in Soweto, an extravaganza that included stars like Alicia Keys and Shakira and was meant to launch the contest on a joyous note. At its conclusion, the sky lit up with fireworks as happy attendees made way to their parked vehicles.

According to police, Zenani Mandela died in a one-car accident on a Johannesburg highway. The man behind the wheel, who has yet to be named, was accused of drunk driving and may also be charged with culpable homicide, the police said.

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