Former South African president Nelson Mandela is reportedly on life support. The news came on Wednesday, three days after current president Jacob Zuma announced that the anti-apartheid icon’s condition had become critical.
The reports of Mandela on life support caused further unease in his home country, where thousands of supporters wait anxiously to see whether or not the former president will survive his latest illness.
Mandela was admitted to the hospital on June 8 for a recurring lung infection. The infection stems from tuberculosis, which Mandela contracted while serving time at a prison labor camp.
Until Sunday, the former South African president was listed in serious but stable condition . However, it appears that the peace prize winner took a turn for the worse over the weekend, with reports suggesting he is slowly passing away.
Despite the potential final days of Nelson Mandela, President Zuma stated that the doctors have been doing everything possible to save his life. A statement released by doctors on Tuesday evening added that they are continuing to “do their best to ensure his recovery, well-being and comfort.”
But the apparent decision to place Nelson Mandela on life support could mean that the end is near for the beloved anti-apartheid icon. As well-wishers waited to hear updates on Mandela’s condition, they hung balloons, stuffed animals, and letters of support outside the Pretoria hospital where the former president lays in critical condition.
Some members of his family came outside to collect the mementos and Mandela’s grandson-in-law commented, “He’s going to feel a lot better when he sees these signs.” But an archbishop apparently stopped by the hospital on Tuesday to conduct prayers. He called for “a quiet night and a peaceful, perfect end” for Mandela.
Until an official announcement is made, there is no clear picture on Nelson Mandela’s true condition, or whether the anti-apartheid icon is on life support or not.
