He is a hero to millions across the globe but Nelson Mandela's office have urged well-wishers to leave the weary former statesman alone.
In a statement the Nelson Mandela Foundation said the 92-year-old wished to enjoy his retirement in peace after a lifetime of public service.
The foundation's spokesman Sello Hatang said the announcement had come as the former South African president was continually inundated with requests and demands for appearances and interviews.
Peace for Mandela: The former statesman's office has appealed that the 92-year-old be left to enjoy his retirement
'Nelson Mandela receives at least 4,000 messages a month from people throughout the world,' said Mr Hatang.
'Many of these pay tribute to Mr Mandela and wish him well in his retirement.
A lifetime of service: Nelson Mandela celebrates his 92nd birthday in July 2010
'However, there are just many requests: for his signature, a message of support, a public appearance or an interview.
'There are also continued injunctions for him to intervene in struggles around the world, and to endorse various causes.'
The Foundation's statement follows a period in which aging Mr Mandela, who turned 92 in July, has rarely been seen in public following his retirement.
Mr Hatang said the former president had made it clear when he retired from politics in 1999 that he would no longer be able to respond to demands from members of the public.
Five years later the former African National Congress leader announced he would withdraw fully from public life and allow his work to be continued by three organisation established in his name - the Nelson Mandela Foundation, the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund and the Mandela Rhodes Foundation.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation has now asked 'people everywhere' to respect Mr Mandela's retirement by leaving him in peace.
Mr Hatang said people should remember the anti-apartheid legend would no longer give interviews, sponsor good causes or even sign autographs.
Urging members of the public to refrain from contacting the former politician, he added: 'Because of the sheer volume of requests for his autographs, he no longer signs books, memorabilia, photographs, etc.
'We therefore appeal to the public not to send items for him to sign as the Foundation cannot guarantee the safe return of this material.'
The statement demanding peace for Mr Mandela is the latest sign the former statesman is slowing down following a lifetime of hard work.
Since retiring fully in 2004, the former president has made only occasional public appearances.
During his last outing he appeared tired and fragile as he waved to crowds from the back of a gold buggy before July's World Cup final in Johannesburg.
Reclusive: Nelson Mandela leaves the memorial service for his late granddaughter, a rare public appearance for the former South African president
Last year the Nelson Mandela Foundation was forced to issue a statement confirming he remained in good health despite his advancing years.
The move followed repeated speculation that Mr Mandela's health had started to falter.
Despite the rumours, those around the beloved public figure maintain that he remains fully healthy.
Away from public life, the former statesman enjoys a quiet life with his extended family, which includes many children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He lives in Johannesburg with his third wife Graca Machel.
Source:dailymail.co.uk)
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