Former president Nelson Mandela with wife Graca Machel and Mandla Mandela. Picture: Gallo Images
TNA Reporter and Sapa
Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini has joined the call to South Africans to pray for former President Nelson Mandela, SABC radio news reports.
The King said he wished Madiba a speedy recovery and thanked the medical team looking after him.
Mandela is scheduled to spend Christmas Day in hospital in Pretoria, having been flown there from his Eastern Cape home at Qunu on December 8. He was diagnosed with a lung infection and also underwent gallstone surgery.
His current stay in hospital is his longest since he was freed over two decades ago.
The king's call comes a week after over 4 500 delegates at the ANC's 53rd elective conference stood in silence as they prayed for former President Nelson Mandela.
President Jacob Zuma on Saturday visited former President Nelson Mandela in hospital in Pretoria.
"We urge South Africans to continue praying for our beloved Madiba during this period. Our hearts are with the whole family and relatives," said President Zuma.
phutim@thenewage.co.za