China’s propaganda ministry ordered local media not to highlight Nelson Mandela’s remarks on human rights and democracy in advance of the South African leader’s funeral, according to a report in SouthChinaMorningPost.

Two Chinese media sources confirmed the orders from the ministry, which read in part, “All media and websites must be prudent in selecting the materials and (must) report appropriately,” the report said.

The Chinese propaganda department routinely issues orders to newspapers, magazines and websites, requiring news media to censor politically sensitive topics and highlight the content considered favorable to authorities, SouthChinaMorningPost reported.

Chinese Vice-President Li Yuanchao will represent President Xi Jinping at Mandela’s funeral, according to the report.

“All posts and comments on Weibo and blogs that take advantage of the funeral of Mandela to attack our political systems and state leaders must be deleted immediately,” the order stated.

It also warned local media not to report on the relationship between Mandela and the Dalai Lama, and not to cover Taiwan-related issues —  long been deemed sensitive topics by Beijing — during the funeral. Taiwan is a former diplomatic ally of South Africa.

The Dalai Lama tried twice unsuccessfully to get a visa to South Africa, according to the report, and will not attend the funeral. “Logistically, it’s impossible at this time,” a spokesman was quoted by wire agencies as saying.

“We were told not (print) gossip,” said an editor with a local media outlet. “But content on the positive China-South Africa relationship are welcomed,” SouthChinaMorningPost reported.