Mandela is to enjoy retirement | |
http://www.sina.com.cn 2004/06/02 10:14 Shanghai Daily | |
South Africa's former President Nelson Mandela appealed yesterday for more time to spend with his family and friends while his health remains good. The aging Mandela has kept a hectic schedule since he retired from politics five years ago. He helped try to negotiate an end to fighting in Burundi, made numerous charitable appearances and recently took part in the successful bid to bring the 2010 soccer World Cup to South Africa. "I'm turning 86 in a few weeks time and that is a longer life than most people are granted," Mandela said in Johannesburg. "I am confident nobody will accuse me of selfishness if I asked to spend time while I'm still in good health with my family, my friends and myself." Mandela still enjoys enormous influence as the former champion against apartheid who spent 27 years in prison for his beliefs and is in constant demand. He said he from now on he will be more selective about what events he attends. "Don't call me, I'll call you," he said to laughter. (The Associated Press)
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