14:55 11 December 2012
Reports confirmed that Nelson Mandela, the former South African president, was admitted to Pretoria hospital on Saturday as he “has stopped talking”. This is according to a source close to the former president’s family, who spoke with the The Sunday Times, of South Africa.
The news has prompted much concern in South Africa, who considers Mandela their hero. On Sunday, Presidential spokesman Mac Maharaj confirmed Mandela is staying in the hospital for further tests.
Information about his condition or when he will be discharged wasn’t made available. However, based on reports he gave an assurance that Mandela is comfortable and that there was no cause for alarm.
President Jacob Zuma, who visited Mandela on Sunday, has confirmed that the former president is looking well after a restful night.
December 10th is a significant day for the former president. The same day in 1993, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
In a statement released by Mr Maharaj, he talked about Mandela’s condition and achievement: “[Mr Mandela] had a good night's rest. The doctors will still conduct further tests today [Monday]. He is in good hands.”
It continued to read: “Today is also a special day as President Mandela received the Nobel Peace Prize on 10 December 1993... for his selfless contribution to the struggle for liberation, human rights and justice in South Africa.”