South Africa has asked the Constitutional Court to stop the US auction of 29 items associated with Nelson Mandela, arguing they are protected heritage objects that should remain in the country.

Mandela's eldest daughter, Makaziwe, authorised the sale to raise funds for a memorial garden near her father's grave in Qunu.

South Africa has asked the Constitutional Court to stop the US auction of 29 items associated with Nelson Mandela, arguing they are protected heritage objects that should remain…