South African Government (Pretoria)

South Africa: President Zuma Spends Christmas Morning with Madiba

25 December 2012

press release

Photo: Nelson Mandela Foundation/SAPA
Nelson Mandela in June 2009.

Tshwane — President Jacob Zuma joined Mrs Graca Machel and members of the Mandela family to wish former President Mandela a merry Christmas at his bedside in hospital in Pretoria this morning, Christmas Day, 25 December 2012.

"We found him in good spirits. He shouted my clan name, Nxamalala, as I walked into the ward! He was happy to have visitors on this special day and is looking much better. The doctors are happy with the progress that he is making," said President Zuma.

President Mandela has been in hospital since the 8th of December.

President Zuma thanked the public for the good wishes and prayers since Madiba was admitted to hospital.

"The Mandela family truly appreciates all the support they are receiving from the public. That is what keeps them going at this difficult time," said President Zuma.

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