Nelson Mandela has been in hospital for a few days and nobody really knows why. The official word includes very few words, and societal hypersensitivity is maxed out like my credit card.

So, it comes as no surprise (I’ve subsequently discovered) that a cartoon, relating to Madiba’s death, will create mayhem in any editorial setting.

My cartoon is commenting on the media frenzy which, as we know, is about getting the best story and photo.  The grave is empty and there is no deceased date on the tombstone, obviously suggesting that Nelson Mandela is not dead.

However, the editorial team felt that the cartoon is insensitive (or could be viewed as such) and asked me to do something different with the grave, as seen below.

While I don’t necessarily agree with the decision to dilute my cartoon, I do understand that Madiba’s deteriorating health is uncharted territory.

He is, after all, an iconic figure who has significantly influenced world history in a good way.

Erring on the side of caution, especially in this instance, is forgivable.