Pretoria – President Jacob Zuma has arrived at the Pretoria hospital where former President Nelson Mandela is being treated for a recurring lung infection.
Madiba’s condition has been described as critical and he has been at the hospital since June 8.
Local and foreign journalists outside the hospital jostled for positions to get better shots of President Zuma when he arrived at the hospital.
Zuma joined Mandela family members, who were already at the hospital.
Among the dignitaries visiting the ailing former President are Public Service and Administration Minister Lindiwe Sisulu, Defence Deputy Minister Thabang Makwetla and other senior government officials, including senior ANC officials.
Security outside the hospital is tight and only close family members are allowed to enter.
Traffic on the street where the hospital is situated is affected, and many well-wishers have gathered to show their support for Madiba.
“When I first heard of the news that Madiba has been admitted to the hospital, I started praying for his recovery,” well-wisher Johan Oosthuisen told SAnews.
Mogomotsi Maakga, who stays at a block of flats near the hospital, also wished Madiba well.
The wall at the hospital entrance is sprawling with messages from people wishing Madiba well, with most of them written, ‘Madiba Get Well!’
The mood outside the hospital is sombre, with most people expressing their concern for Madiba.
Different churches have been praying for Mandela outside the hospital. – SAnews.gov.za
