Motlanthe says Mandela doing very well

Surgeon General of the SA National Defence Force, Vejaynand Ramlakan, left former president Nelson Mandela’s home after a three hour visit on Saturday afternoon as he recovers from an acute respiratory infection.

Visitors to the 92-year-old icon included Acting President Kgalema Motlanthe, some of Mandela’s grandchildren, his daughter Zenani and the late Brenda Fassie’s son Bongani. Mandela’s long time aide Zelda la Grange also walked through the large steel gate in Houghton, Johannesburg.

Mandela was “doing very well”, said Motlanthe.

“At the conclusion of the visit Mr Motlanthe said president Mandela was doing very well, is in good spirits and resting,” government spokesperson Themba Maseko said in a statement.

“Mr Mandela told Acting President Motlanthe that he was pleased to be back at home and spending quality time with his loved ones.

“Motlanthe urged everyone to remain calm.

He said the elder statesman was receiving the best medical care possible under supervision of the surgeon general of the SA National Defence Force,” Maseko said.

Mandela was admitted to Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg on Wednesday for what the Nelson Mandela Foundation called “routine checks”.

This was followed by a news blackout which led to a frenzy of rumours.

Public to be kept informed
On Friday afternoon Motlanthe addressed the media for the first time about Mandela’s health—two-and-a-half days after he was admitted to Milpark hospital.

Mandela was discharged on Friday afternoon and was receiving home-based care for an acute respiratory infection.

Maseko said: “Government will ensure that the public is kept informed about the progress Mr Mandela was making. Regular statements will be issued to the media as the need arises.”

Gauteng premier Nomvula Mokonyane was expected to attend a prayer meeting at the Regina Mundi Catholic Church on Sunday for the former president, the premier’s spokesperson Sipho Mokoena said in a statement.

The prayer meeting was taking place at 9am at the church in Rockville, Soweto.

“Premier Mokonyane and other prominent South Africans will show support for Madiba by lighting a candle of hope for his speedy recovery,” he said. - Sapa