INTELLIGENCE Minister Joe Nhlanhla has suffered a mild stroke and his poition will be assumed with immediate effect by Justice Minister Penuell Maduna. Nhlanhla’s condition was confirmed by a spokesman in President Mbeki’s office, Joel Netshitenzhe, who said Nhlanhla is in a stable condition at a Johannesburg hospital. Doctors attending to Nhlanhla expect him to commence a rehabilitation programme very soon, Netshitenze said. “President Mbeki wishes Minister Nhlanhla a speedy recovery, and hopes that the minister will assume his responsibilities as soon as possible.” A neurologist treating Nhlanhla earlier said he would remain in hospital for at least a week. He was on official duty in Pietersburg with members of his department when he told his colleagues he was unable to continue with the proceedings. Paramedics were called to the scene from where Nhlanhla was airlifted to the a private clinic.