A man who provided sign language interpretation on stage for Nelson Mandela's memorial service was a "fake," according to the national director of the Deaf Federation of South Africa, as reported by The Associated Press.
The man was not signing in South African or American sign languages,, and "it was not immediately clear if the unidentified man was using a different method to communicate," The AP also reported.
"It was horrible, an absolute circus, really bad. Only he can understand those gestures," said Nicole Du Toit, an official sign language interpreter who also watched the broadcast, said in a telephone interview with the AP.
"The clear lack of a proper vetting process for a man given such close proximity to world leaders including US President Barack Obama presented a major security risk. South African Authorities are attempting to track the man down, but so far his identity is reportedly unknown.
How he got so close to the dignitaries are also unknown, according to news reports.
Also at the memorial, President Obama received flack for appearing with Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt and British Prime Miniser David Cameron in a "selfie" photo during the service.
The president has been slammed by some on the right for what they consider inappropriate behavior during a memorial service. Rush Limbaugh, for instance said Tuesday that Obama was "thinking about himself."
"Perhaps, in my defense, you should always remember that the television cameras are always on," Prime Minister David Cameron saiid.
