Former South African President Nelson Mandela has been hospitalized for nearly two weeks. He is being treated for a recurring lung infection and an attack of gallstones.
The 94-year old anti-apartheid legend was admitted into a Pretoria hospital on Dec.8 as a result of complications with his lungs and to have gallstones removed by surgery.
“Doctors are satisfied that the progress he is making is consistent with his age,” said South African President Jacob Zuma Dec. 19. “They say there is no crisis, but add that they are in no hurry to send him home just yet until they are satisfied that he has made sufficient progress.”
Zuma reminded the South African people that although Mandela is receiving needed “extra-ordinary care” he is inching closer and closer to becoming a centenarian, according to wire service reports.
“If he spends more days in hospital, it is because that necessary care is being provided. We wish the family strength during this period. They have the love and support of the whole nation,’’ said Zuma.
Mac Maharaj, spokesman for the president, said in the same statement that Mandela was “looking much better.
Born in the eastern portion of South Africa, Mandela spent 27 years in prison cells on charges ranging from treason as one of the architects of the African National Congress.
