PRETORIA ZA – The President of South Africa states that media reports that former President Nelson Mandela is in a “vegetative state” are not true. In a statement issued by President Jacob Zuma, the Government of South Africa says Madiba is in serious, but stable condition.

Nelson Mandela Serious But Stable

“Former President Mandela has been and remains under the care of a multi-disciplinary panel of South African medical experts drawn from the South Africa Military Health Services, the public sector, the universities and the private sector. Under this panel a team of doctors, nurses, paramedics and other health professionals attend to Madiba on a 24 hour basis”, according to the statement issued July 5 2013.

“
We confirm our earlier statement released this afternoon after President Jacob Zuma visited Madiba in hospital that Madiba remains in a critical, but stable condition. The doctors deny that the former President is in a vegetative state”.

South Africans Thanked for Prayers

The South African Government says it has “Been touched by the flood of well wishes and prayers that have been offered at the Pretoria Heart Hospital. The public response has reflected the emotional mood of a country whose identity is so closely linked to the father of the nation”.

Acting GCIS CEO, Phumla Williams said, “The response by South Africans collectively displayed the values and unity of ubuntu, which are the cornerstone of our democracy. This sense of togetherness and belonging is one of the many legacies of Madiba and a demonstration that South Africa is truly a Rainbow Nation united in its diversity; as well as a demonstration of the leadership qualities of our icon.”

South Africans are urged to continue to pray for Mandela. “As a country, we need to uphold Tata’s ideals and celebrate his legacy of commitment and service for the improvement of conditions in South Africa and around the world,” said Williams.

The South African Government is calling on citizens to participate in Mandela Month by giving 67 minutes to contribute to the betterment of communities and worthy causes.